Prostatectomy is an operation to remove part or all of the prostate gland. Doctors do this surgery mainly for two reasons. First is prostate cancer, where the whole prostate is removed. Second is a large prostate, called BPH, that blocks urine flow.
In surgery, the doctor may remove only the inner part of the prostate or the full gland. It can be done through small cuts with a camera, using a robot, or through the urine pipe. After surgery, a tube is placed to drain urine for a few days. Take a look at the surgery below:
Duration | 2-4 Hours |
Anesthesia | General Anesthesia |
Hospital Stay | 1-3 Days |
Recovery Time | 2 to 6 weeks |
ICD Code | 0VT00ZZ |
Success Rate | Upto 90% |
What is Prostatectomy Surgery?
Prostatectomy is surgery to remove part or all of the prostate gland. The prostate sits below the bladder and wraps around the urine pipe in men. The whole prostate gland is removed to take out the cancer. This is called a radical prostatectomy. And if only the inner part of the prostate that blocks urine flow is removed. This is called a simple prostatectomy.
The surgeon can operate through small cuts using a camera or robot, through an open cut in the belly, or through the urine pipe with special tools. After surgery, patients use a urine tube for a few days.
Recovery usually takes 2 to 6 weeks. Common side effects can include urine leakage or changes in erection. Talk with Artemis Hospitals professional for advice about whether this surgery is right for you.
What are the Different Types of Prostatectomy?
Prostatectomy can be done with a few different surgical approaches, each one kinda different in how it’s done, how long recovery tends to be, how precise it is, and what the hospital can actually offer. Even though less invasive methods are getting more popular all the time, the “best” choice usually depends on the patient’s specific situation, the surgeon’s experience, and what the treatment aims are.
Robot-Assisted Prostatectomy (Most Preferred)
This is generally the approach many people get offered today, especially in prostate cancer cases. The surgeon guides robotic instruments using small openings, so the work is done with a lot of fine control. That often means less bleeding, reduced discomfort, and a quicker return to normal activities. In some appropriate situations, it can also help with safeguarding urinary control and sexual function. Whether it’s available depends on local equipment, plus the expertise level of the surgical team.
Laparoscopic Prostatectomy
This is a minimally invasive method where the surgeon uses several small incisions, plus a camera and special tools. Compared with open surgery, it’s often linked with less pain, shorter time in the hospital, and a faster recovery window. Still, it’s not chosen as often these days when robotic surgery is an option, because many centers prefer the robot-assisted route.
Open Radical Prostatectomy
A more traditional technique, done through a larger incision in the lower abdomen to take out the prostate. It’s still a dependable option, especially when the case is complicated or when robotic resources are not available. That said, recovery is usually longer, with more post-op discomfort and more blood loss compared with minimally invasive alternatives.
Perineal Prostatectomy (Least Preferred)
Here, the prostate is removed through an incision made between the scrotum and anus. Sometimes this can mean shorter operating sessions, but it is used less these days since access to nearby lymph nodes is more limited, and it may come with a higher chance of nerve-related side effects. Because of that, it tends to be reserved for certain selected patients only.
Feature | Open Radical | Laparoscopic | Robot-Assisted | Perineal Prostatectomy |
Incision Size | Large abdominal incision | Small incisions | Robotic-assisted incisions | Single incision between scrotum and anus |
Blood Loss | Higher | Moderate | Lowest | Moderate |
Hospital Stay | 2–4 days | 1–3 days | 1–2 days | 1–3 days |
Recovery Time | 4–8 weeks | 2–6 weeks | 2–4 weeks | 3–6 weeks |
Pain After Surgery | More pain | Less pain | Least pain | Moderate pain |
Precision & Nerve Preservation | Good | Better | Excellent | Limited compared to robotic approach |
Cost | lowest | Moderate | Highest | Moderate |
When Should I Consult the Doctor for Prostate Removal Surgery?
A person should see a doctor when severe urinary trouble shows up, and it just won’t go away. If the usual medications don’t manage to bring relief, surgery can become a realistic alternative, not just some idea.
Typical warning signs are things like:
- Needing to urinate very often
- Having a feeble stream
- Feeling like the bladder doesn’t empty all the way
If urinary tract infections keep coming back, or bladder stones show up again, then immediate medical attention is needed. Also, blood in the urine counts as a serious sign, so it needs quick clinical evaluation to help stop long-term harm to the kidneys.
Early treatment is important because it can reduce the chance of malignant cells spreading. During the consultation, the patient should talk through every surgical danger, and the recovery routine too, step by step. That way the treatment choice is informed, and the plan is more likely to work as intended.
Unsure if prostatectomy is the right treatment option for you?
Seek a trusted second opinion from our experienced urology experts.
How Can I Prepare for Prostate Removal Surgery?
Proper preparation for prostate removal surgery involves careful medical and personal planning. The patient must undergo comprehensive clinical evaluations to ensure optimal physical readiness. Strictly adhering to all pre-operative instructions guarantees a safer and smoother surgical experience.
- Medical evaluation
- Medication review
- Fasting instructions
- Bowel preparation
- Kegel exercises
- Hydration management
- Recovery arrangements
What Happens During Prostatectomy Surgery?
Prostatectomy surgery requires precision and careful execution by the specialized surgical team. The procedure involves removing the affected gland while preserving surrounding healthy tissues. The medical staff ensures the patient remains completely stable throughout the entire operation.
- The patient receives general anesthesia to remain completely unconscious and pain-free. The medical team closely monitors vital signs to ensure absolute clinical safety.
- The surgical team positions the patient carefully on the main operating table. Proper alignment provides the surgeon with optimal access to the pelvic region.
- The staff cleans and sterilizes the surgical site to prevent bacterial infection. Sterile drapes are applied to maintain a clean environment around the abdomen.
- The surgeon makes several small incisions for a robotic or laparoscopic approach. A traditional open procedure requires one larger incision across the lower abdomen.
- The medical team inflates the abdomen with harmless carbon dioxide gas. This creates the necessary working space to maneuver surgical instruments safely.
- The surgeon inserts a high-definition camera through one of the small incisions. Specialized surgical instruments are then placed through the remaining abdominal access ports.
- The surgical team carefully navigates through complex pelvic tissues and structures. They accurately locate the prostate gland situated just below the urinary bladder.
- The surgeon meticulously separates the delicate nerve bundles from the prostate gland. Preserving these nerves helps the patient maintain important functional abilities after recovery.
- The medical staff identifies and securely clamps the surrounding pelvic blood vessels. This crucial action prevents excessive bleeding during the complex organ removal process.
- The surgeon carefully detaches the prostate gland from the urinary bladder's neck. Extreme precision is required to protect the integrity of the surrounding muscles.
- The surgical team also removes the attached seminal vesicles alongside the prostate. These small glands are typically excised to ensure complete malignant tissue removal.
- The surgeon may extract nearby pelvic lymph nodes for further laboratory testing. This evaluation helps determine if any abnormal cells have spread further.
- The medical team meticulously stitches the severed urethra directly to the bladder. This delicate reconnection properly restores the vital urinary tract pathway for the patient.
- The surgeon inserts a temporary urinary catheter through the reconstructed urinary tract. This device allows the newly repaired tissue connection to heal without internal strain.
- The medical staff carefully withdraws all surgical instruments from the abdominal cavity and the surgical incisions are securely closed with sutures and covered with sterile dressings.
What to Expect After Surgery?
After the procedure, the patient will wake up in the recovery room under close observation. The medical team actively monitors vital signs and manages initial pain levels. A urinary catheter remains securely in place to facilitate internal healing, which may cause mild discomfort.
Once stabilized, the patient transfers to a regular hospital ward. Our staff will encourage gentle walking within a day to promote blood circulation and prevent complications. After ensuring the patient can eat, drink, and manage pain effectively, the doctor will authorize a safe discharge home, typically within two to three days.
Normal After Surgery | When to Call a Doctor |
Mild pain or discomfort around the surgical area | Severe or worsening pain not relieved by medication |
Light blood in the urine for a few days | Heavy bleeding or blood clots in the urine |
Mild swelling or bruising | Increasing swelling, redness, or warmth around the incision |
Temporary urinary leakage or urgency | Inability to urinate or catheter blockage |
Feeling tired or fatigued during recovery | High fever (above 100.4°F/38°C) or chills |
Mild burning sensation while urinating | Signs of infection, such as pus or foul-smelling discharge |
Reduced appetite for a few days | Persistent nausea, vomiting, or dehydration |
Gradual improvement in urinary control | Sudden worsening of urinary symptoms |
Mild constipation due to medications | Severe constipation lasting several days despite treatment |
What are the Advantages of Prostate Removal Surgery?
Prostate removal surgery offers significant clinical benefits for individuals facing severe prostatic conditions. The primary goal is to completely eradicate malignant cells or provide long-term relief from debilitating urinary symptoms. This surgical intervention ultimately aims to restore the patient's overall quality of life.
- Complete eradication of localized prostate cancer tumors
- Precise pathological staging of the disease severity
- Long-term relief from severe urinary tract obstructions
- Significant reduction in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels
- Lowered risk of future cancer recurrence
- Extended survival rates for high-risk oncological cases
- Prevention of long-term kidney damage from retention
Experiencing prostate-related symptoms or diagnosed with prostate cancer?
Consult our specialists for safe and effective prostate removal surgery in Gurgaon.
Recovery Tips After Prostatectomy Surgery
A successful recovery journey requires immense patience and strict adherence to medical guidance. The patient must prioritize adequate rest to allow the body to heal properly. Following these essential daily practices ensures a smoother transition back to normal routines.
Do’s | Don’ts |
Walk daily to improve blood circulation | Don't lift heavy objects for at least 4–6 weeks. |
Drink plenty of water to keep urine flow consistent | Don't smoke or consume alcohol during recovery. |
Take all prescribed medicines | Don't strain during bowel movements. |
Eat a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation. | Don't drive until your doctor gives approval. |
Keep the surgical area clean and dry. | Don't engage in strenuous exercise too soon |
Attend all follow-up appointments for proper monitoring. | Don't ignore signs of infection, bleeding, or severe pain. |
Get adequate rest and sleep to support healing. | Don't remove the catheter yourself unless instructed by your doctor. |
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid irritation around the surgical area. | Don't sit in the same position for long periods without moving. |
Contact your doctor promptly if you develop fever, difficulty urinating, or unusual swelling. | Don't resume sexual activity until your doctor advises that it is safe. |
Contact Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram for Prostatectomy
At Artemis Hospitals in Gurugram we offer modern robotic technology and surgeons who are very experienced in oncological care. From the very first appointment, the patient gets proper, continuous guidance all the way through recovery, even after surgery, so it feels less confusing. And yes, picking the right hospital genuinely changes how well the surgical outcome tends to go.
To start, contact the urology department; that is often the very first big move toward healing. Our coordinators are there to help line up the full checkups and evaluations, without delay, and clear explanations.
Artemis Hospitals also assists with the necessary preoperative paperwork and the approvals related to insurance. So, getting ready for surgery becomes more organized and supported than most people expect. If you reach out today, it can help you get quicker access to quality clinical treatment and better overall well-being.
Article by Dr. Kunal Vinayak
Associate Consultant - Urology & Kidney Transplant
