Surgery is an option when the cancer hasn’t spread and is confined to the prostate. This can either be done by making an incision and removing the prostate (open surgery).

Or by having a few smaller incisions with the doctor guiding robotic arms to perform the operation (robotic surgery).

  
Lymph nodes may also be taken to see if the cancer has spread. Afterwards, you can expect a hospital stay of 2-3 days, a catheter to drain the urine (for 1-2 weeks) and approximately 3-6 weeks recovery time.

The 2 main side effects include:

• Erectile dysfunction – Most men cannot have an erection right after surgery because the nerves need time to heal. This may improve within 12 months to 4 years with no guarantee of erections coming back. However, there are treatment options that may help.

• Incontinence (loss of bladder control) – This is usually resolved within 9 months. During that time, wearing absorbent pads will help with protection.

Posted in: Treatment Options