What is a Robotic Radical Prostatectomy?
A robotic radical prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland in men with prostate cancer.
The surgery is performed using robotic-assisted keyhole (minimally invasive) techniques, which allow the surgeon to operate with high precision through several small incisions in the abdomen.
During the operation, the entire prostate gland and seminal vesicles are removed. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed for further evaluation.
Robotic Partial Nephrectomy
Why is this Procedure Performed?
Robotic prostatectomy is commonly recommended for men with localised prostate cancer, where the cancer is confined to the prostate gland.
The aim of the surgery is to remove the cancer completely while preserving urinary control and sexual function where possible.
Your doctor may recommend this treatment based on:
PSA levels
MRI findings
Biopsy results (Gleason score / Grade Group)
Your age and overall health
Personal preferences
Advantages of Robotic Surgery
Robotic-assisted surgery offers several potential benefits compared with traditional open surgery:
Smaller incisions
Less blood loss
Reduced postoperative pain
Shorter hospital stay
Faster recovery
Improved visualisation for the surgeon
How is the Procedure Performed?
The operation is performed under general anaesthetic, meaning you will be asleep during the surgery.
During the procedure:
Several small incisions are made in the abdomen.
A camera and robotic instruments are inserted through these small openings.
The surgeon controls the robotic instruments from a nearby console.
The prostate gland and seminal vesicles are carefully removed.
The bladder is then reconnected to the urethra.
In some cases, pelvic lymph nodes may also be removed to check for cancer spread.
The operation usually takes 2–4 hours.
Hospital Stay and Recovery
Most patients stay in hospital for 1–2 days following surgery.
After the operation:
A urinary catheter will remain in place for about 7–10 days to allow healing.
Mild abdominal discomfort is common for a few days.
Most patients can return to normal daily activities within 3–4 weeks, although heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks.
Possible Side Effects
As with any prostate cancer treatment, there are potential side effects.
Urinary Incontinence
Some men may experience urinary leakage after surgery. This usually improves over time as the pelvic floor muscles recover.
Pelvic floor exercises can help improve continence.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erections may be affected after surgery because the nerves responsible for erections run close to the prostate.
Where possible, nerve-sparing techniques are used to preserve erectile function. Recovery of erections may take several months to years and may not return fully in all patients.
Other Risks
Possible surgical risks include:
Bleeding
Infection
Blood clots
Injury to surrounding structures (rare)
Narrowing of the bladder neck or urethra
Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the operation.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Contact your doctor if you experience:
Fever or signs of infection
Severe pain
Difficulty passing urine after catheter removal
Heavy bleeding
Swelling in the legs
Pathology Results
The removed prostate is examined by a pathologist to determine:
The extent of the cancer
The Gleason score / Grade Group
Whether the cancer has spread outside the prostate
Results are usually available within 1–2 weeks.
Follow-Up
After surgery, PSA levels will be monitored regularly.
PSA should fall to very low or undetectable levels after successful prostate removal.
Follow-up appointments typically include:
PSA blood tests
Clinical review
Monitoring of recovery and urinary function
