Robotic Prostate Surgery FAQs

Radiotherapy is not routinely given following a robotic radical prostatectomy. There are certain circumstances where it maybe needed. In particular, this may be required, when more aggressive prostate cancer features are encountered. The features of each man’s disease will be discussed at the time of catheter removal, one week following surgery.

The two most important things to do after a robotic prostatectomy are to drink lots of water and to do lots of walking in the first week in particular. This allows a man’s bowel function to recover quicker, encourages the blood flow and facilitates a quicker recovery.

6 small incisions are made to facilitate robotic prostate removal. There is always a risk with any type of keyhole surgery that conversion to an open operation maybe required, however at the time of writing this has never been required in Dr Chabert’s series.

How long after a radical prostatectomy before a man can return to work? This will ultimately depend on what type of employment a man has. Office based administrative roles can be recommenced very soon after the surgery, however those with more active roles should take at least 4 weeks off. For more specific details on a particular job please ask Dr Chabert for advice.

Is there much pain after a robotic radical prostatectomy? No, most men can be managed with simple tablets for pain relief. Men are usually discharged from hospital with an anti-inflammatory, paracetamol, stool softner and a stronger pain killing tablet to be taken if more discomfort is experienced.

After a robotic prostatectomy, i is critical to facilitate a rapid recovery that men do lots of walking after this type of surgery. Dr Chabert encourages men to walk at least 500 m the day after surgery and every day thereafter to walk at least 1 km until catheter removal. Do not lift anything heavy, strain or carry out strenuous activity for at least 4 weeks post surgery.

Do men require a catheter after robotic prostatectomy? Yes all men have a small catheter inserted at the time of surgery. Men are discharged with this in place and provided education on how to manage this over the next week. Prior to removal at Dr Chabert’s office a dye test called a cystogram will be performed to ensure that the join created between the bladder and the urethra has had time to heal. After this the catheter will be removed.

How long are people hospitalised for after a robotic prostatetctomy? The majority of men are admitted overnight to hospital being discharged the next day around lunchtime.

How long does it take to perform a robotic radical prostatectomy? Dr Chabert has performed hundreds of robotic surgeries and on average a case will take between 60-90 minutes.