What is robotic radical prostatectomy?

A radical prostatectomy is a surgery for prostate cancer that involves removal of the entire prostate gland and some surrounding tissue. In a robotic radical prostatectomy, small cuts are made in the stomach and a flexible lighted tube containing the video camera and thin instruments are inserted into the incisions. The instruments are attached to a machine and are controlled by a surgeon using a console.

On average, it is believed that men use less blood when a prostatectomy is performed laparoscopically like this technique (rather than an open surgery) and also have a faster return of urinary continence (the ability to control your bladder). In most men with prostate cancer, surgery is curative.