Prostatectomy – Prostate Removal Surgery
What is a Prostatectomy?
Prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the prostate gland, a small gland located below the bladder in men that helps produce seminal fluid. It is commonly performed to treat prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or chronic prostatitis that doesn’t respond to other treatments.
Depending on the reason and extent of the disease, the surgery can be:
- Radical Prostatectomy – removal of the entire prostate gland, typically for cancer
- Simple (Open) Prostatectomy – removal of part of the prostate, usually for BPH
- Laparoscopic or Robotic Prostatectomy – minimally invasive approaches with smaller incisions and quicker recovery
Who Needs a Prostatectomy?
A prostatectomy may be recommended for:
- Localized prostate cancer
- Enlarged prostate (BPH) causing severe urinary problems
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Chronic prostatitis or pelvic pain
- Bladder outlet obstruction
Types of Prostatectomy
- Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy
- Laparoscopic/Robotic-Assisted Prostatectomy
- Perineal Prostatectomy
- Simple Prostatectomy
– Incision made in the lower abdomen to remove the prostate and surrounding tissue
– Minimally invasive surgery using small incisions and robotic tools for precision
– Prostate removed through an incision between the scrotum and rectum (less common)
– Removes only part of the prostate; usually for BPH, not cancer
Procedure Overview
- Performed under general or spinal anesthesia
- Takes about 2–4 hours, depending on the technique
- Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed if cancer is involved
- A catheter is placed temporarily to help with urine drainage after surgery
Recovery after Prostatectomy
- Hospital stay: 1–3 days for minimally invasive surgery
- Full recovery: 4–6 weeks
- Temporary use of a urinary catheter (usually 1–2 weeks)
- Pain medication, antibiotics, and stool softeners as needed
- Regular follow-up to monitor healing, PSA levels (in cancer cases), and urinary function
Possible Risks and Side Effects
- Urinary incontinence (temporary or long-term)
- Erectile dysfunction
- Bleeding or infection
- Injury to surrounding organs (bladder, rectum)
- Narrowing of the urethra (stricture)
Life after Prostatectomy
- Most patients recover well and return to normal activities
- Sexual function and urinary control may improve gradually over time
- Regular PSA monitoring is important after cancer-related prostatectomy
- Supportive therapies (pelvic floor exercises, medications) aid recovery
Why Choose Dr. Harish NL?
- Advanced Robotic & Laparoscopic Surgical Options
- Comprehensive Cancer & BPH Care
- Personalized Recovery & Rehab Plans
- Compassionate, Confidential Support