Minimally invasive, robotic-assisted prostate surgery:
About the Procedure
In a traditional radical prostatectomy, the surgeon removes the entire prostate gland and surrounding tissue including the seminal vessels. The incision is typically 8 to 10 inches long and the surgery commonly results in significant blood loss and a long and uncomfortable recovery.
In a laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, the prostate is removed through several tiny incisions, including one in the navel. The laparoscope is passed through the navel, and the other incisions create portals for the instruments. The laparoscope is outfitted with a camera that allows the surgeon to see on a video screen what he or she would not otherwise be able to see without a large, open incision.
Jefferson urologic oncologists were the first in the Delaware Valley to offer laparoscopic radical prostatectomy. With the addition of the robotic technology, Jefferson’s multidisciplinary urologic cancer team can now offer patients prostate removal surgery with less pain, a shorter hospital stay, faster recovery and improved outcomes.
Utilizing the laparoscopic approach, the new robotic system further refines the procedure by allowing the surgeon’s hand movements to be scaled, filtered and translated into precise movements of micro-instruments within the operative site. The magnified, three-dimensional view the surgeon experiences enables him or her to perform surgery in a complex procedure such as a radical prostatectomy through small surgical incisions. The robot cannot be programmed or make decisions on its own. The system requires that every surgical maneuver be performed with direct input from the surgeon.
Not all patients are candidates for the robotic procedure and should have a consultation with the cancer team at the multidisciplinary Jefferson/Kimmel GU oncology center to discuss all treatment options available.
More about the da Vinci Prostatectomy
If you are a physician and would like to refer a patient, please call 215-955-0215.
If you are a patient and would like to make an appointment or would like more information, please call 1-800-JEFF-NOW. |
