Robotically assisted prostate cancer surgery, also referred to as a robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy or a robotic prostatectomy, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a surgeon uses finely controlled robotic instruments to perform the prostatectomy safely, while enhancing patient recovery and outcome.
Advantages of having a robotically assisted prostatectomy include: • Shorter hospital stay • Quicker return to normal activity • Reduced pain • Less blood loss • Less scarring and • Less risk of infection
A robotic prostatectomy is also referred to as a robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy. The surgeon makes several small incisions in your lower abdomen to remove the prostate. He or she sits at a console, using instruments attached to a mechanical device (robot). Using the robotic device allows a more precise response to movement of the surgeon's hands.
The surgeon controls the robotic prostate surgery robotic arms from the robot console using natural hand and wrist movements. Robotic prostatectomy is designed to allow greater precision than is normally achievable in open and laparoscopic prostatectomy surgery.
Typically it takes 2½ to 3 hours depending on the size of the prostate, the patient's anatomy and constitution, and the extent of surgery.
The majority of patients are discharged the day after surgery. However, the time of discharge is decided on a case-by-case basis. By the second night, most of our patients are comfortable enough to go home.
Approximately five to six small keyhole (<1cm) incisions are made.
Absolutely not! The robot is completely under the control of the surgeon. The robotic arms enable the surgeon to operate in small spaces in the abdomen
Men who are diagnosed with a localised prostate cancer are candidates for this procedure. The indications for this surgery are very similar to open surgery.
The cost of robotic surgery can vary depending on the surgeon. We urge you to discuss this with your surgeon in order to obtain an accurate estimate of fees.
This depends on your private medical insurance policy. Please consult your private medical insurance company for clarification of what is covered by your policy.