Prostatectomy

What is Prostatectomy?
Prostatectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the prostate gland and, in some cases, surrounding tissue. It is primarily performed to treat prostate cancer, but it may also be done for benign conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in certain cases.
How to diagnose Prostatectomy? When to consult a doctor?
The diagnosis of conditions leading to a prostatectomy typically involves several steps: Medical History, Physical Examination, Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test, Imaging Tests, Biopsy & Gleason Score.
You should consult a doctor if:
- Urinary Problems: Such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination (especially at night), or a weak urine stream.
- Pelvic or Lower Back Pain: Persistent pain in the pelvic area, lower back, or hips can be a sign of prostate issues.
- Blood in Urine or Semen: Hematuria (blood in urine) or hematospermia (blood in semen) can indicate prostate problems, including cancer.
- Family History of Prostate Cancer: If you have a family history of prostate cancer, you should consult a doctor for screening, even if you do not have symptoms.
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Causes
- Prostate Cancer
- Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
- Prostate Inflammation or Infection
- Atypical Cells or Precancerous Conditions
Symptoms
- Urinary Symptoms
- Elevated Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Levels
- Abnormal Digital Rectal Exam (DRE)
- Bone Pain or Other Metastatic Symptoms
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Frequently Asked Questions
Recovery varies by surgical technique but typically includes:
- Hospital stay of 1-2 days for open surgery, shorter for minimally invasive.
- Pain management, wound care, and gradual resumption of activities.
- Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, with complete recovery taking up to 6-8 weeks.
Risks can include urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction, changes in orgasm, infertility, and complications from anesthesia or infection.
Yes, there is a risk of erectile dysfunction after surgery, especially if nerve-sparing techniques are not used. Many men experience some recovery of sexual function over time, and options like medications or devices may be available.