Modern surgery using laparoscopic technique allows kidney and prostate tumors to be operated via a few key holes and removed via a small incision, resulting in less pain, shorter hospital stay and rapid convalescence.
Robotic prostatectomy refers to surgical total removal of the prostate gland using the da Vinci robot. This is done for prostate cancer and not for benign prostatic hyperplasia. The surgeons sits at the surgeon console and maniplulates the robotic arms which are inserted via keyholes into the patient's abdominal cavity. This method incorporates the latest advancements in robotic-assisted technology and allows a surgeon greater visualization, enhanced dexterity, precision, control and superior ergonomics. Disecting, cutting, gripping and turning action by the surgeon are exactly replicated in the patient. Tissue structures are seen by a highly manified binocular giving a 3-D vision, allowing the surgeon to perceive depth. Hand tremors are filtered off and allows very precise and steady suturing and cutting. Robotic surgery results in reduced blood loss, preservation of penile potency and minimize the risk of urinary incontinence. Cancer clearance is not compromised by this form of minimally invasive surgery.
Robotic prostatectomy is done under general anesthesia and takes about 3 to 4 hours. Hospital stay ranges from 2 to 4 days.
