Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. It affects the prostate gland, a small organ that helps produce semen. When prostate cancer grows and spreads, doctors may suggest surgery to remove the prostate. This surgery is called a prostatectomy.
If you or a loved one is facing this surgery, it is natural to have many questions. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know in simple words so you can understand the process better.
Why Do Doctors Recommend Prostate Cancer Surgery?
Doctors usually recommend surgery when the cancer is still inside the prostate. This means it has not spread to other parts of the body. Surgery is often a good option if the patient is healthy and strong enough to recover well.
In some cases, other treatments like radiation or hormone therapy may be used instead of or along with surgery. The main goal of surgery is to remove cancer and prevent it from spreading further.
Types of Prostate Cancer Surgery
There are different ways doctors perform prostate cancer surgery. The most common type is radical prostatectomy, where the doctor removes the entire prostate gland along with some nearby tissues. This can be done through open surgery, which involves making small cuts and using special tools with a camera to remove the prostate.
Another advanced method is robot-assisted surgery. This is a type of laparoscopic surgery where a robotic system helps the surgeon perform the operation with more accuracy. Since it uses smaller cuts, it results in less pain, less bleeding, and a faster recovery.
What Happens Before Surgery?
Before the surgery, the doctor will do tests like blood tests, scans, and heart checkups to make sure the patient is ready for the operation. The patient may need to stop certain medicines or avoid eating and drinking for a few hours before the surgery.
The doctor will also explain the risks and benefits of the procedure so that the patient knows what to expect.
What Happens During Surgery?
The surgery is done under general anesthesia, which means the patient will be asleep and will not feel any pain. The doctor carefully removes the prostate gland along with some surrounding tissues if necessary. The operation can take anywhere between two to four hours, depending on the method used.
Recovery After Surgery
After the surgery, the patient usually stays in the hospital for one to three days. A catheter (a small tube) is placed to help drain urine because the body needs time to heal. This catheter is usually removed after one to two weeks.
Some men feel pain, swelling, or tiredness after the surgery, but doctors provide medicines to help manage these symptoms.
Conclusion
Prostate cancer surgery is a common and effective way to treat prostate cancer. While it has some risks, most men recover well and live a healthy life afterward. Understanding the procedure, the recovery process, and the possible side effects can help patients feel more prepared.
If you or someone you know is going through this, it is always best to talk to a doctor for the right advice and support.
