Robotic Surgery

Prostatectomy

Thanks to the da Vinci Surgical System, men undergoing a prostatectomy have the option of a minimally invasive approach, which can reduce complications and promote faster recovery times.

A da Vinci Prostatectomy (dVP) incorporates state-of-the-art robotic technologies that provide natural depth of field and allow a surgeon’s hand movements to be scaled, filtered and translated into precise micro-movements of tiny instruments at the operative site. The superior visualization, enhanced dexterity, precision and control enable the surgeon to perform complex procedures — like radical prostatectomy — through dime-sized operating “ports.”

For most patients, da Vinci Prostatectomy offers such potential benefits as:

  • Shorter hospital stay.
  • Less pain.
  • Less risk of infection.
  • Less blood loss and fewer transfusions.
  • Less scarring 
  • Faster recovery
  • Faster return to normal activities.

In addition, recent studies suggest that dVP may offer improved cancer control and a lower incidence of impotence and urinary incontinence.

The da Vinci Surgical System already has been used to successfully treat thousands of prostate cancer patients worldwide. This year, it is expected that 20 percent of all prostatectomies will be performed using this technique – and this percentage will only grow. Trident Health System skilled robotic surgery team is scheduled to perform 350-400 robotic surgeries this year.

Candidates for da Vinci Prostatectomy

Good candidates are usually men with localized disease who have optimal potential for long-term survival after their treatment. Prior surgery and obesity can add challenges to the procedure, but do not necessarily rule out a man as a candidate.

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