Prostate Cancer
The most popular choice for treatment of localized prostate cancer in the U.S. is the Robotic Prostatectomy.
Holy Cross Health in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, performs Robotic Prostatectomy with the da Vinci® Surgical System, a minimally invasive procedure that removes the cancerous prostate gland and related structures. In prostate cancer treatment, millimeters matter. Nerve fibers and blood vessels are attached to the prostate gland. To spare these nerves, they must be delicately and precisely separated from the prostate before its removal.
Holy Cross surgeons use the precision, vision and control provided by the da Vinci to assist them in removal of the cancerous prostate while preserving important nerves and blood vessels.In terms of cancer control, in several large published studies da Vinci Prostatectomy has shown equal or lower rates of positive surgical margins (meaning margins with cancer cells left behind) than large studies of other forms of surgery.
The other great concerns for prostate cancer patients are urinary continence and sexual function after treatment. Studies show patients who undergo a da Vinci Prostatectomy may experience a faster return of urinary continence following surgery and a lower rates of urinary pain than radiation (brachytherapy) patients. Several studies also show that patients who are potent prior to surgery have experienced a high level of recovery of sexual function (defined as an erection for intercourse) within a year following da Vinci Surgery. Other benefits of Robotic Prostatectomy at Holy Cross include:
- Less tissue damage and scarring as a result of minimally invasive incisions.
- Less post-operative pain and discomfort.
- 3D visualization, offering surgeons a more accurate view of the operative field.
- Smaller incisions.
- Less blood loss and minimal scarring.
- Shorter post-operative recovery time with a more rapid return to normal activity
As with any surgery, these benefits cannot be guaranteed, as surgery is both patient- and procedure-specific. While treatment of prostate cancer using the da Vinci Surgical System is considered safe and effective, it may not be appropriate for every individual. Always ask your doctor about all treatment options, as well as their risks and benefits.
Contact a physician who performs minimally invasive robotic prostate cancer surgery: