Robotic Prostate Surgery: What Is It and Its Use in Prostate Cancer Treatment

Robotic prostate surgery is a modern surgical method used in the treatment of prostate cancer. This technique offers a minimally invasive approach through robotic systems, allowing patients to recover faster and experience fewer complications.

The Surgical Process

1. Preparation Phase
- Before the surgery, patients are evaluated by an anesthesiologist. Medication may be administered to reduce pre-operative stress.
- Patients are admitted to the hospital on the day of surgery and are advised not to eat or drink anything after midnight.

2. Surgical Procedure
- In robotic prostate surgery, typically four incisions of 8-12 mm are made in the abdominal area. A camera that provides 3D imaging is placed in one of these incisions, while surgical instruments are inserted into the others.
- The robot has four arms that carry robotic instruments controlled by the surgeon from a console. This system allows for more precise movements by the surgeon.

3. Removal of the Prostate
- During the surgery, the cancerous prostate tissue is carefully removed. The bladder and urethra are reconnected with the assistance of the robotic system.

Advantages

Robotic prostate surgery has several advantages:
- Less Bleeding: The abdominal area is inflated with gas during surgery, reducing the risk of bleeding.
- Less Pain and Faster Recovery: Due to smaller incisions, patients experience less pain and shorter recovery times.
- Lower Risk of Urinary Incontinence: The rate of urinary incontinence after robotic surgeries is around 5%, which is a significant advantage compared to other methods.
- Preservation of Sexual Function: The precision provided by robotic surgery helps protect erectile nerves, reducing the risk of sexual dysfunction.

Robotic prostate surgery is an effective and safe method for treating prostate cancer. Its minimally invasive nature has the potential to enhance patients' quality of life. However, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive evaluation before determining the appropriate treatment method for each patient.