Principles of the Procedure
This operation is performed to remove the entire prostate, for definitive treatment of prostate cancer. A vertical lower midline incision is used to dissect out and remove the prostate, and then to re-join the bladder back onto the urethra. Whenever possible, the neurovascular bundles, which play a role in erectile function, are preserved. Depending on the initial biopsy results, a pelvic lymph node dissection may additionally be performed.
Pre-operative Preparation
You will be admitted on the same day of the surgery. No specific preparation is needed apart from fasting about 6 hours prior to the surgery. Occasionally a small rectal enema is used to empty the rectum on the morning of surgery You should continue to take your usual medications unless directed otherwise by your urologist or his anaesthetist. Please inform us if you are taking any anticoagulant medication.
Expected Post-operative recovery
Following the operation, you will wake up with a catheter in your bladder and a small drain from the right side of the abdomen. The drain is usually removed the second day following surgery. You should be able to start back on a normal diet the evening of the operation. Most patients are able to go home on the 4th or 5th day after the surgery, with the catheter in place. This is attached to a small leg bag, designed to be worn under normal clothes. One to two weeks after the surgery, this is removed by the continence nurses at your hospital of treatment.
Risks – as per your discussion your Urologist
Bleeding, seroma formation
Infection
Catheter irritation
Urine leak
Impotence
Incontinence
Injury to surrounding structures
Need for additional treatment