What is Prostate Surgery?
Prostate surgery involves the partial or total removal of the prostate gland, typically to address conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer.
Collecting random information on the internet about prostatectomy can be overwhelming and often lacks the specifics relevant to your case. Consulting an experienced urologist provides tailored, accurate information focused on your unique health needs.
Schedule a Priority Virtual Appointment here.
Types of Prostatectomy:
- Simple Prostatectomy: Removal of the inner portion of the prostate to relieve pressure on the urethra.
- Radical (or Total) Prostatectomy: Complete removal of the prostate and some surrounding tissues, often used to treat prostate cancer.
Also Known As: Enlarged prostate surgery, inflamed prostate surgery, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) surgery.
How Does Prostate Surgery Work?
The urologist makes a lower abdominal incision to access the prostate, which is about the size and shape of an orange. Depending on the procedure, they may either remove the entire prostate or open it and extract the inner tissue pressing on the urethra, followed by suturing and closing the surrounding tissues.
Types of Prostate Surgery
- Open Prostatectomy:
Also known as open surgery, this procedure involves a lower abdominal incision, allowing the urologist direct access to remove the enlarged prostate or address other specific conditions. This method is typically used for larger prostates or complex cases. - Laparoscopic Prostate Surgery:
This less invasive option is performed without a large incision. Instead, the surgeon uses small instruments inserted through tiny incisions, eliminating the need for direct hand access. Laparoscopic prostatectomy is one of the most commonly used techniques due to its minimally invasive nature, which results in shorter recovery times.
Robotic Prostate Surgery:
Essentially similar to laparoscopic surgery, this approach uses robotic assistance to further reduce risks and improve precision. Robotic prostate surgery is often chosen for its enhanced accuracy, which helps to minimize complications and optimize outcomes
What Types of Anesthesia Are Used for This Surgery?
For prostate surgery, the following types of anesthesia may be chosen:
- General Anesthesia: You are asleep during the surgery.
- Spinal Anesthesia: You remain awake but are sedated and feel no pain.
The prostatectomy procedure lasts between 2 to 4 hours.
Why Does an Enlarged Prostate Cause Urinary Infections?
An enlarged prostate compresses the urethra, preventing the bladder from emptying completely. The retained urine in the bladder creates an environment where urinary infections can develop.
What Determines the Surgical Technique?
The choice of procedure depends on the size of the prostate and the underlying reason for the enlargement. If there is evidence of cancer, a radical prostatectomy is typically required.
Symptoms Indicating the Need for Prostatectomy:
- Persistent feeling of a full bladder or urinary retention
- Recurrent urinary infections
- Blood in the urine
- Bladder stones alongside an enlarged prostate
- Delay in starting urination and a weak urine flow
- Kidney damage
What Are the Risks of Prostatectomy?
The general risks of any surgery include:
- Blood clots that could travel to the lungs
- Blood loss
- Respiratory complications
- Heart attack or stroke during surgery
- Infection
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia or medications
Prostate Surgery Consequences
Prostatectomy has potential consequences, but to receive information specific to your case, a consultation is recommended.
Possible consequences or side effects of radical prostatectomy include:
- Urinary Incontinence: Loss of bladder control
- Erectile Dysfunction: Impotence or difficulty achieving an erection