Our Summary

This research paper is about a new type of prostate surgery called Retzius-sparing Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RS-RARP). The researchers wanted to compare it to the more traditional type of prostate surgery, anterior RARP. They looked at studies that have been done on both types of surgery to see how well they work and what the side effects are. They found that people who had the new type of surgery seemed to recover control of their bladder faster, but after about 6 months, there was no difference between the two types of surgery. The study also found that the two types of surgery had similar effects on sexual function and quality of life. However, there is still debate about which type of surgery is better at completely removing the cancer. The researchers concluded that more studies need to be done to see if the new type of surgery is better at treating prostate cancer in the long run.

FAQs

  1. What is Retzius-sparing Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy (RS-RARP)?
  2. How does the recovery time and side effects of RS-RARP compare to the traditional anterior RARP?
  3. Is there a definitive conclusion on which type of surgery is better at completely removing prostate cancer?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about prostatectomy is to make sure to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including any medication schedules, physical therapy exercises, and dietary guidelines. It is important to attend all follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor recovery progress and address any concerns. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support overall recovery and well-being after surgery. It is also important to communicate openly with your healthcare team about any changes in symptoms or side effects experienced after the procedure.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended prostatectomy are those who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer that is localized to the prostate gland and has not spread to other parts of the body. Prostatectomy may also be recommended for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) that is causing significant urinary symptoms and has not responded to other treatments.

In general, candidates for prostatectomy are typically in good overall health and have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. The decision to undergo prostatectomy is usually made after a thorough discussion with a urologist and consideration of factors such as the stage and grade of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and their preferences and goals for treatment.

It is important for patients considering prostatectomy to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with their healthcare provider and to carefully weigh their options before making a decision. Prostatectomy is a major surgery and can have significant side effects, so it is important for patients to be well-informed and have realistic expectations about the potential outcomes.

Timeline

  • Before prostatectomy:
  1. Patient is diagnosed with prostate cancer through a biopsy or imaging tests.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluations such as blood tests, imaging studies, and possibly a bone scan to determine the extent of the cancer.
  3. Patient may be advised by their healthcare provider to make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or increasing physical activity, to improve surgical outcomes.
  4. Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider and decides to undergo prostatectomy as a treatment option.
  • After prostatectomy:
  1. Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, either anterior RARP or RS-RARP, to remove the prostate gland.
  2. Patient may experience side effects such as pain, urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and changes in orgasmic function immediately after surgery.
  3. Patient is discharged from the hospital and instructed on post-operative care, including wound care, catheter care, and pelvic floor exercises to improve urinary control.
  4. Patient follows up with their healthcare provider for regular check-ups and monitoring of PSA levels to assess for cancer recurrence.
  5. Patient may experience improvements in urinary control and sexual function over time as they recover from surgery.
  6. Patient continues to follow up with their healthcare provider for long-term monitoring and management of any lingering side effects or complications from the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with prostatectomy surgery?
  2. How long is the recovery process and what can I expect in terms of pain and discomfort?
  3. Will I need any additional treatments, such as radiation therapy or hormone therapy, after the surgery?
  4. What is the success rate of this type of surgery in terms of removing the cancer completely?
  5. How will the surgery affect my urinary function and what can I do to improve bladder control post-surgery?
  6. What are the potential impacts on sexual function and what options are available for addressing any issues that may arise?
  7. How often will I need follow-up appointments and monitoring after the surgery?
  8. Are there any lifestyle changes or modifications that I should make to support my recovery and overall health after the surgery?
  9. Are there any clinical trials or new treatment options that I should consider exploring?
  10. Can you provide me with more information about the specific technique being used for the prostatectomy and how it compares to other surgical approaches?

Reference

Authors: Albisinni S, Dasnoy C, Diamand R, Mjaess G, Aoun F, Esperto F, Porpiglia F, Fiori C, Roumeguere T, DE Nunzio C. Journal: Minerva Urol Nephrol. 2022 Apr;74(2):137-145. doi: 10.23736/S2724-6051.21.04623-1. Epub 2021 Oct 29. PMID: 34714037