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Radical prostatectomyRadical prostatectomy is major surgery that removes the entire prostate gland plus some surrounding tissue. The surgery is performed to remove the cancer entirely as well as to prevent its spread to other parts of the body. The surgeon may decide that the pelvic lymph nodes to be sampled for a biopsy. Radical prostatectomy is performed under general or regional anesthesia. 
This surgery can be radical retropubic prostatectomy, radical perineal prostatectomy, laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) or transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).
In retropubic prostatectomy, the surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen to remove the prostate gland. Lymph nodes around the prostate might also be removed depending on whether the cancer has spread to these parts. In perineal prostatectomy, the incision is made in the perineum or the skin between anus and scrotum. This procedure is use less often because the lymph nodes cannot be removed and there is a high probability that the nerves will be affected. LRP, on the other hand, involves the use of several smaller incisions and specialized instruments. This highly complex procedure is known for its high precision and control. In the hands of experienced surgeons, it becomes an advantageous option compared with retropubic and perineal prostatectomy. TURP, meanwhile, makes use of an instrument called a resectoscope which is passed through the end of the penis into the urethra at the level of the prostate. The electricity that passes through the instrument cuts or vaporizes the issue in the prostate. TURP is done to relieve symptoms and is also used for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Risks of radical prostatectomyThe risks after this procedure are similar to those of any major surgery. They may include:
Recovery time for radical prostatectomySince a radical prostatectomy is major surgery, patients may require blood transfusion. After operation, patients typically need 2-4 days of hospitalization. Full recovery can take up to 12 weeks.Side effects of radical prostatectomyA traditional radical prostatectomy is undertaken using wide margins around the prostate, damaging the nerves which control the blood supply to the penis. By consequence, among side effects, impotence is nearly guaranteed (51 - 96% impotence rates have been shown). Incontinence is also a very realistic side effects.Conclusion related to selection criteriaBecause of this radical prostatectomy's are not popular among possible prostate cancer treatment options, and usually only seen as a last resort. It is recommended only for men in good general condition who can withstand long anesthesia and have a life expectancy of ten years or more.Success and effectiveness of radical prostatectomyRadical prostatectomy's have the highest success rate among all prostate cancer treatment options, due to the fact that it calls for the complete removal of the prostate. Success rates for a radical prostatectomy can range from 30 - 98%. Studies have shown success rates between 76 - 98% for low-risk disease; 60 - 76% for moderate risks disease; and 30 - 76% for high risks disease. The experience of the surgeon performing the surgery is an important fact, i.e. surgeons have greater success and lower complications rates if they routinely perform the procedure.Latest NewsOne of the most feared side effects of therapy for prostate cancer is the impact on sexual health. According to National Cancer Institute in US, about 219.000 men have been diagnosed prostate cancer every year and almost a half of those men had prostate removal. [ read full article ] [ read more articles ] NOTE: Issues on this site regarding men's health and their concerns, are provided for information only, and are not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other medical professional. Prostate-Report.org does not endorse any specific product, service or treatment. |
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