If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, there is a good chance that you are working with a medical team that is helping you get the care that you need. Your doctor might have recommended prostate cancer surgery, such as a prostatectomy. If you're going to be having this surgery done, then you should be as aware as possible about what to expect during and after your surgery. These are some of the top things that you'll want to be aware of, although you should talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns that you have, too.
Some or All of Your Prostate Will Be Removed
If you have been scheduled for a prostatectomy, then understand that the surgery is done to remove either part or all of your prostate. Whether or not your entire prostate has to be removed typically depends on how far your cancer has progressed.
Your Surgery Might Be Done By a Robot
In some cases, this surgery is still done by hand by a skilled surgeon. However, in many cases, prostatectomies are done by robots. Many people prefer this option since it is more sterile and precise, and it can often be completed more quickly, too. You can ask beforehand whether your surgery will be done with the assistance of a robot or not.
You May Have to Spend the Night in the Hospital
In most cases, patients are required to spend one night in the hospital after having this surgery done. This is required for observation purposes and to give the patient a chance to start recovery before heading home. If there are complications with your surgery, or if you are a higher-risk patient due to age or some other factor, then you might be required to spend a couple of nights in the hospital. Your doctor should be able to tell you more about how much time to expect to spend in the hospital before your surgery, but it might change based on your condition after surgery.
There May Be Some Side Effects
Unfortunately, there are some side effects that you might need to be prepared for in the months after your surgery. For example, some people complain about dealing with erectile dysfunction. If you have this issue then talk to your doctor about medications or lifestyle changes that might help. Some people suffer from urinary incontinence after their surgery, and you may find that wearing an adult diaper for a while after your surgery will help you avoid uncomfortable and embarrassing issues related to urinary incontinence.
For more information about prostate cancer surgery, contact a medical facility.
Hello! My name is Brian and this blog is designed to help you to understand the various health and medical services which are available to you. Until I became unwell, I had no idea just how many different health and medical services were offered to me by my doctor and the local hospital. Thankfully, when I began to have some trouble with my heart, my doctor was able to refer me to a specialist who carried out a series of tests. I have recently had an operation and I am now feeling much better. I hope my blog helps you if you are about to go into hospital.