What is a radical prostatectomy?

Radical prostatectomy is one of the most effective ways to cure limited prostate cancer. The procedure involves removal of the prostate gland and its surrounding seminal vesicles, ejaculatory ducts, part of the vas deferens, and pelvic lymph node dissection as appropriate. Radical prostate cancer surgery is generally categorized into three types of traditional surgical, laparoscopic, and robotic-assisted procedures. 1. Traditional surgery: it is necessary to make an incision in the patient’s lower abdomen and then remove the prostate, which is more damaging to the patient and slower for postoperative recovery, so it is generally not the preferred option. 2. Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive surgery: it is less damaging than traditional surgery, and is the most commonly used radical prostate cancer surgery. 3. Robot-assisted surgery: the surgeon carries out the surgery by controlling the operating system, which enables the surgeon to make a more precise operation, with shorter operation time, less bleeding, and less risk of postoperative complications, and therefore a faster recovery compared with laparoscopic surgery. To summarize, early prostate cancer can achieve a good prognosis or even be cured through radical prostatectomy, and it is recommended that patients choose a treatment plan that suits their condition under the guidance of their doctors.