Prostate Cancer Surgery

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Q:  I have just been diagnosed with prostate cancer and would to know what percent of patients end up with incontinence from robotic prostate surgery? I need to make a decision of what treatment I should have, and safety concerns me?
Jerry

A:  I believe it is important for patients to take the time to thoroughly look into potential treatment options and both the risks and benefits that may be involved.  I did find some information that you may find helpful from a local urologist.

In February of this year I featured Robotic Surgery used at Centra Health’s Lynchburg General Hospital for prostate cancer surgery.  During my interview with Dr. Christopher Stands and Dr. Corey Passman about the technology both pointed out that the technology means more precision and less recovery time for the patient.

So I consulted with urologist, Dr. Passman, with Seven Hills Urology about the rate of incontinence after the procedure.

He says, “That question comes up very often in our conversations with patients.  All men will have incontinence after prostate surgery.  At Seven Hills Urology, all robotic prostatectomy patients work with our physical therapist before and after surgery to help them regain urinary control faster.”

The majority of patients will regain control 3-6 months after surgery.

He adds, “90~95 % of men will have good urinary control one year after surgery.  For the group of men that continue to experience problems one year after surgery, there are other procedures that can help them regain continence.” 

Of course, your physician should be able to help you with even more specific details that relate to your particular situation.

Link to more information about Robotic Surgery for Prostate Cancer.