Our Summary

The research paper talks about a type of surgical procedure used to treat prostate cancer, known as the Retzius-sparing robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy. This procedure has been developed and modified over time. The paper discusses the history of this surgery, why it’s done using this specific approach, and the main steps involved.

So far, nine studies have compared this specific procedure with the standard one. The findings suggest that the Retzius-sparing robotic-assisted version might be better at improving urinary control within the first year after surgery, and is just as effective at treating the cancer for up to 18 months. However, more research is needed to understand its impact on sexual function and its long-term effectiveness in treating cancer.

FAQs

  1. What is the Retzius-sparing robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy approach?
  2. How does the Retzius-sparing robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy compare to the standard robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy in terms of outcomes?
  3. What further research is needed in relation to the Retzius-sparing robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about prostatectomy is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully, including doing pelvic floor exercises to help improve continence and bladder control. It is also important to attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor recovery and address any concerns.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for prostatectomy are those with localized prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate gland. Additionally, patients who have not responded to other treatment options such as radiation therapy or hormone therapy may be recommended for prostatectomy. Other factors that may influence the recommendation for prostatectomy include the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences.

Timeline

Before prostatectomy:

  • Patient is diagnosed with prostate cancer through screening tests such as PSA levels and biopsy.
  • Patient may undergo additional tests such as MRI or CT scans to determine the extent of the cancer.
  • Patient discusses treatment options with their healthcare provider, including the possibility of prostatectomy.
  • Patient may undergo pre-operative testing and preparation, such as blood tests and imaging studies.
  • Patient may meet with a surgeon to discuss the procedure and potential risks and benefits.

After prostatectomy:

  • Patient undergoes the surgical procedure, which may be done through open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, or robotic-assisted surgery.
  • Patient may stay in the hospital for a few days following the surgery for monitoring and recovery.
  • Patient may experience side effects such as pain, swelling, and urinary incontinence in the immediate post-operative period.
  • Patient may need to follow a specific diet and activity plan to aid in recovery.
  • Patient will have follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their progress and address any complications.
  • Over time, patient may experience improvements in urinary function and continence, as well as potential improvements in sexual function. Long-term follow-up will be needed to monitor for recurrence of cancer.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a prostatectomy?
  2. What is the recovery process like after a prostatectomy?
  3. How will a prostatectomy affect my urinary function?
  4. Will I experience any changes in sexual function after a prostatectomy?
  5. How long will it take for me to regain continence after a prostatectomy?
  6. How often will I need follow-up appointments after a prostatectomy?
  7. What is the success rate of a prostatectomy in terms of treating prostate cancer?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before undergoing a prostatectomy?
  9. What can I do to prepare for a prostatectomy and improve my outcomes?

Reference

Authors: Davis M, Egan J, Marhamati S, Galfano A, Kowalczyk KJ. Journal: Urol Clin North Am. 2021 Feb;48(1):11-23. doi: 10.1016/j.ucl.2020.09.012. Epub 2020 Nov 5. PMID: 33218585