Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Can They Remove Your Prostate

Must read

Within 30 Days Of Your Surgery

Best Outcomes in Surgery for Prostate Cancer – Christopher Saigal, MD | UCLAMDChat

Presurgical Testing

Before your surgery, youll have an appointment for presurgical testing . The date, time, and location will be printed on the appointment reminder from your surgeons office. Its helpful to bring the following things to your PST appointment:

  • A list of all the medications youre taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, patches, and creams.
  • Results of any tests done outside of MSK, such as a cardiac stress test, echocardiogram, or carotid doppler study.
  • The name and telephone number of your healthcare provider.

You can eat and take your usual medications the day of your appointment.

During your PST appointment, youll meet with a nurse practitioner . They work closely with anesthesiology staff . Your NP will review your medical and surgical history with you. You may have tests, such as an electrocardiogram to check your heart rhythm, a chest x-ray, blood tests, and any other tests needed to plan your care. Your NP may also recommend that you see other healthcare providers.

Your NP will talk with you about which medications you should take the morning of your surgery.

Complete a Health Care Proxy form

If you havent already completed a Health Care Proxy form, we recommend you complete one now. If youve already completed one or have any other advance directives, bring them to your next appointment.

Sperm banking

Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program

Do breathing and coughing exercises

Exercise

Prostate Removal Side Effects

Urinary incontinence

It is a common but temporary effect of prostate surgery. Usually, the symptoms improve within a year after the prostate removal.

Sexual dysfunctions

Erectile dysfunction is one of the most common prostate removal side effects. About 40% of men lose some erectile function after radical prostatectomy, but they see gradual improvements within 2-3 years.

Infertility

Other side effects of prostate removal

In rare cases, bowel function is affected and dry orgasms appear.

Types Of Prostate Surgery

There are several ways of removing the prostate keyhole surgery either by hand or robot-assisted, and open surgery.

Although robot-assisted keyhole surgery is the newest technique, the most recent research suggests all three techniques are as good as each other for treating prostate cancer, as long as the surgeon is experienced. They also have similar rates of side effects.

The advantages of keyhole surgery, both by hand and robot-assisted, are that you are likely to lose less blood, have less pain, spend less time in hospital, and heal more quickly than with open surgery.

Keyhole surgery

Keyhole surgery .

  • Robot-assisted keyhole surgery Your surgeon makes five or six small cuts in your lower abdomen and a slightly bigger cut near your belly button, and removes the prostate using special surgical tools. These include a thin, lighted tube with a small camera on the tip. The image will appear on a screen so the surgeon can see what theyre doing. Your surgeon controls the tools from a console in the operating room via four or five robotic arms. Although its called robot-assisted, its still a surgeon who does the operation. You may hear the equipment called the da Vinci® Robot.
  • Keyhole surgery by hand As with robot-assisted keyhole surgery, the surgeon will make four or five small cuts in your abdomen. But they will hold the surgical tools in their hands, rather than using robotic arms.

Open surgery

Recommended Reading: Can Bacterial Prostatitis Be Sexually Transmitted

Robotic Or Laparoscopic Prostatectomy

Robotic prostate surgery removes the entire prostate gland and is done by laparoscopic or robotic techniques. This type of surgery is less invasive than radical prostatectomy, in which a camera and instruments are inserted through key-hole incisions into the pelvic region. This allows a better view of the pelvic area without a large abdominal incision. The surgeon then controls the robotic instrument for the operation of prostate removal.

Robotic prostatectomy causes less bleeding and less pain and may shorten recovery time. The sexual and urinary side effects are similar to those of radical prostatectomy.

Why is da Vinci® prostatectomy a good option for prostate removal?

Robotic prostate surgery is accomplished using the da Vinci® Surgical System, which allows surgeons to operate with improved vision, dexterity, and control.

Bleeding After Prostate Surgery

Robotic

Bleeding after prostate surgery is among the most common problems. To prevent the problem, a drain system is installed in the surgical area, and in addition to this system, some treatments are also performed to prevent bleeding. Although bleeding after prostate surgery is not a sign of important problems, you should definitely contact your physician if the condition has become chronic.

There is a number of risks that can occur after prostate surgery. These risks may include urination problems, urinary incontinence, bleeding, and sexual dysfunction. In this article, we will talk about the bleeding problem faced after prostate surgery.

You May Like: Where Is Prostate Cancer Likely To Spread

The Success Rate Of Prostate Surgery

Survival rates can tell you how many people with the same type and stage of cancer are still alive 5 years after being diagnosed. For example, if you have stage 3 colon cancer, there is a 66% chance that 5 years later, you will be alive. But the rates cannot tell you how long you will live. However, they may help give you an idea of how likely your treatment will be successful.

Survival rates are estimates. They are based on data from many people who have had cancer before. These numbers might be confusing because they dont tell you what will happen, but they can help doctors decide treatments. Talk with your doctor to see if these statistics apply to you because they know about your situation.

A relative survival rate tells how likely a person is to survive a particular type of cancer. I.e., if the 5-year close survival rate for prostate cancer is 90%, it means that men who have this type of cancer are about 90% as likely as other men to live a minimum of 5 years after being diagnosed with the disease.

Talking Counselling And Sex Therapy

Talking to your partner about your erection difficulties can help. Or it may help to talk to a close friend if you are not in a relationship.

Not talking to those close to you could be one of the main barriers to coping with this side effect. You might then find it easier to consider ways that could help.

Counsellors or therapists can help if youre worrying about anything to do with your sex life and sexuality. You can be referred by your GP to a counsellor or therapist within the NHS. You might need to go on a waiting list to see them.

Talk to your GP to find out what is available in your area. Your local hospital or your local Erectile Dysfunction Clinic might have this service.

The drugs used to treat erection problems include:

As drugs work best in men who have sexual desire, they might not help some men who are having hormone therapy. There is limited evidence to say these drugs work when having hormone therapy. But some specialists believe that they are still worth a try if you would like to give them a go.

Possible side effects of PDE 5 inhibitors include:

Read Also: How Does A Doctor Test For Prostate Cancer

Recommended Reading: What Is The Purpose Of Your Prostate

What Is Prostate Cancer

Cancer can start any place in the body. Prostate cancer starts in the prostate gland. It starts when cells in the prostate grow out of control.

Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. Cancer cells in the prostate can sometimes travel to the bones or other organs and grow there. When cancer cells do this, its called metastasis. To doctors, the cancer cells in the new place look just like the ones from the prostate.

Cancer is always named for the place where it starts. So when prostate cancer spreads to the bones , its still called prostate cancer. Its not called bone cancer unless it starts from cells in the bone.

Ask your doctor to use this picture to show you where your cancer is.

The prostate

The prostate is a gland found only in men, so only men can get prostate cancer.

The prostate is just below the bladder and in front of the rectum . The tube that carries pee goes through the prostate. The prostate makes some of the fluid that helps keep the sperm alive and healthy.

There are a few types of prostate cancer. Some are very rare. Most prostate cancers are a type called adenocarcinoma. This cancer starts from gland cells. Your doctor can tell you more about the type you have.

What You Need To Know About The Prostate Can They Remove Your Prostate

Prostatic artery embolization: A non-surgical treatment for enlarged prostate | UCLAMDChat

A enlarged prostate can also cause blockages in the urethra. A blocked urethra can also damage the kidneys. A patient suffering from an enlargement of the prostate may have pain in his lower abdomen and genitals. If pain is present, a digital rectal examination will reveal hard areas. A doctor may prescribe surgery or perform an endoscopic procedure. If the enlarged prostate is not completely removed, it will shrink.

While the size of an enlarged prostate will influence the extent of urinary symptoms, men may experience a range of urinary symptoms. Some men have minimal or no symptoms at all. Some men will have a very enlarged prostate, whereas others will have a mild enlargement. Generally, the symptoms can stabilize over time. Some men may have an enlarged prostate but not notice it. If they have an enlarged colon, their physician can perform a TURP procedure.

Also Check: When To Get Your First Prostate Exam

Dealing With Prostate Cancer

Being diagnosed and living with prostate cancer can change how you feel about life. If you or your loved one is dealing with prostate cancer you may feel scared, stressed or even angry. There is no right way to feel and everyone reacts differently.

Visit our wellbeing hub for information to help support you in looking after your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing. If you are close to someone with prostate cancer, find out more about how you can support someone with prostate cancer and where to get more information.

Radical Prostatectomy Retropubic Or Suprapubic Approach

  • You’ll be positioned on the operating table, lying on your back.

  • An incision will be made from below the navel to the pubic region.

  • The doctor will usually perform a lymph node dissection first. The nerve bundles will be released carefully from the prostate gland and the urethra will be identified. The seminal vesicles may also be removed if necessary.

  • The prostate gland will be removed.

  • A drain will be inserted, usually in the right lower area of the incision.

  • Recommended Reading: What Age For Prostate Screening

    What Are The Side Effects

    The most common side effects of surgery are leaking urine and problems with getting or keeping an erection .

    Your risk of getting these side effects depends on your overall health and age, how far the cancer has spread in and around the prostate and how likely it is to grow, and your surgeons skill and experience.

    You May Like: What Does An Enlarged Prostate Indicate

    Immediately After A Prostatectomy

    Prostate enlargement
    • You will stay in hospital for two to five days.
    • Nurses will monitor your vital signs.
    • Your pain will be managed with medication.
    • You may be given antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.
    • You may have a drip inserted into your arm or hand for a few days.
    • You will most likely have a drain tube out of your abdomen that will be removed in the first day or two after the surgery.
    • In most cases, you will have to go home still wearing the catheter. You will be taught how to care for it.

    Don’t Miss: Can Turmeric Help Enlarged Prostate

    Can Prostate Be Removed What Happens After Survival Rate

    Since the prostate can cause so many problems in mens health, can the prostate be removed? The answer is yes. Heres what happens after and the survival rate.

    If you are looking to reduce your chances of developing prostate cancer, this procedure can help you do just that!

    Keep reading to learn more about how to remove your prostate.

    Getting Ready For Surgery

    You and your care team will work together to get ready for your surgery. Help us keep you safe during your surgery by telling us if any of the following statements apply to you, even if youre not sure.

    • I take a blood thinner, such as:
  • I smoke or use an electronic smoking device, such as a vape pen, e-cigarette, or Juul®.
  • I use recreational drugs.
  • About Drinking Alcohol

    The amount of alcohol you drink can affect you during and after your surgery. Its important to talk with your healthcare providers about how much alcohol you drink. This will help us plan your care.

    • If you stop drinking alcohol suddenly, it can cause seizures, delirium, and death. If we know youre at risk for these problems, we can prescribe medications to help keep them from happening.
    • If you drink alcohol regularly, you may be at risk for other problems during and after your surgery. These include bleeding, infections, heart problems, and a longer hospital stay.

    Here are things you can do before your surgery to keep from having problems:

    • Be honest with your healthcare providers about how much alcohol you drink.
    • Try to stop drinking alcohol once your surgery is planned. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you:
    • Get a headache.
    • For information about being a health care agent, read How to Be a Health Care Agent.
    • If you have more questions about filling out a Health Care Proxy form, talk with your healthcare provider.

    Sperm banking

    Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program

    Exercise

    For Caregivers

    Read Also: What Is The Life Expectancy After Prostate Removal

    > > > This Simple Morning Test Will Fix Your Prostate

    Another type of prostate issue is chronic prostatitis, or chronic pelvic pain syndrome. This condition causes pain in the lower back and groin area, and may cause urinary retention. Symptoms include leaking and discomfort. In severe cases, a catheter may be required to relieve the symptoms. If the problem is unresponsive to other treatments, your doctor may suggest a surgical procedure. If these do not work, your symptoms could progress and become chronic.

    An acute bacterial infection can cause a burning sensation. Inflammation of the prostate can affect the bladder and result in discomfort and other symptoms. This is the most common urinary tract problem in men under 50, and the third most common in men over 65. The symptoms of acute bacterial prostatitis are similar to those of CPPS. Patients may experience a fever or chills as a result of the infection.

    Dealing With Erectile Dysfunction: For You And Your Partner

    Robotic surgery for prostate cancer

    The following information is based on the general experiences of many prostate cancer patients. Your experience may be different. If you have any questions about what prostate cancer treatment services are covered by your health insurance, please contact your health care provider or health insurance provider. This education material was made possible by a Grant from the California Department of Justice, Antitrust Law Section, from litigation settlement funds to benefit Californians diagnosed with cancer or their families.

    Read Also: Dog Dewormer For Prostate Cancer

    Recommended Reading: Can You Come Without A Prostate

    Your Emotions And Sex

    Your prostate cancer and its treatment wonât just affect your body. Theyâll also have a serious impact on your emotions. Stress and anxiety can trigger your body to make adrenaline, which gets in the way of having sex. The more you worry, the worse the struggle. If youâre in a relationship, your partner will be going through many of the same feelings.

    One of the most important things you can do is to talk to your partner. Have an honest conversation about your fears and expectations when it comes to sex. Dont assume they know how you feel. Being open with each other will help you both feel supported and help you work together to make any adjustments that you may need to stay intimate.

    Talking with a mental health professional either one-on-one or with your partner can be a powerful way to help manage your emotions. A therapist can also prescribe medications that may ease stress and anxiety. A professional sex therapist can help you and your partner find ways to improve your sex life. It may also be helpful to join a support group where you can talk with others who share your experience.

    Prostate Cancer Foundation: Erectile Dysfunction.

    UCLA Urology: Prostate Cancer: Dealing with Erectile Dysfunction.

    Albaugh, J. Reclaiming Sex & Intimacy After Prostate Cancer: A Guide for Men and Their Partners. Anthony J. Jannetti, Inc., 2012.

    Questions To Ask Your Doctor Or Nurse

    You may find it helpful to keep a note of any questions you have to take to your next appointment.

    • What type of surgery do you recommend for me and why?
    • What type of surgery do you recommend for me? Will you try to do nerve-sparing surgery?
    • How many of these operations have you done and how many do you do each year?
    • Can I see the results of radical prostatectomies youve carried out?
    • What pain relief will I get after the operation?
    • How and when will we know whether the operation has removed all of the cancer?
    • How often will my PSA level be checked?
    • What is the chance of needing further treatment after surgery?
    • What is the risk of having urinary problems or erection problems and what support can you offer me?

    Also Check: What Is Considered Advanced Prostate Cancer

    What Does The Prostate Do

    As men get older their prostate often enlarges.

    Benign prostate enlargement causes men to urinate more frequently and is a common medical condition in men over 50.

    BPE does not make a patient more likely to develop prostate cancer, however.

    The causes of prostate cancer are largely unknown, although research suggests that its linked to obesity and family history.

    Dont Miss: How To Check For Enlarged Prostate At Home

    More articles

    Popular Articles