What are surgical treatments for prostate cancer?

A robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) is a minimally invasive (as is non-robotic laparoscopic prostate surgery) operation for prostate cancer. Only one or two small incisions are made for the whole prostate operation. This means less risk of infection, less pain, reduced blood loss and faster recovery. The robotic system provides the doctor with a magnified, 3-D view of the entire area around the prostate so the doctor can remove—with great precision—cancerous tissue without damaging surrounding nerves. The skill is in the surgeon, not the machine.

Some studies report that robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) is associated with earlier return of urinary function, an improved outlook for potency over the traditional open prostatectomy, and, most importantly, improved cancer control. Other studies find no difference or a better outcome without robotic surgery. It's important to note that with a robot, the operation may take 50% longer to complete, so you're exposed to more anesthesia and other drugs. Your best bet is to ask your surgeon about his or her outcomes and rate of complications. If he or she does not provide outcome information, get another surgeon.

Partial or total removal of the prostate, called a prostatectomy, is an option for some prostate cancer patients. However, because of a higher likelihood of sexual and urinary side effects, this type of prostate cancer surgery is typically not the preferred method of treatment.

The da Vinci® Surgical System offers a minimally invasive alternative to complex surgery. Because it requires only a few tiny incisions and offers greater vision, precision and control for the surgeon, prostate cancer patients often experience reduced pain, less blood loss, lower risk of infection, less scarring, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery.