Radical Prostatectomy (Prostate Cancer Surgery)
This page provides general information about radical prostatectomy (prostate cancer surgery) — what it involves, who it may help, how it is performed, and what to consider when planning treatment abroad. This information is for educational purposes only. Final medical advice must come from a qualified healthcare professional who has evaluated your individual case.
Overview
Radical prostatectomy is the surgical removal of the entire prostate gland and surrounding tissues for the treatment of prostate cancer. It is one of the primary curative treatment options for men with localized prostate cancer. Modern surgical approaches include open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, and robotic-assisted laparoscopic surgery using the da Vinci system. For patients seeking high-quality surgical care at lower costs, traveling abroad for radical prostatectomy can provide access to experienced urologic surgeons and advanced robotic technology at 50-75% savings compared to US prices.Who May Need This
Radical prostatectomy may be appropriate for men with localized prostate cancer that has not spread beyond the prostate gland. Candidates typically have a life expectancy of 10+ years and are in good overall health to tolerate major surgery. The decision depends on cancer stage, Gleason score, PSA levels, age, and personal preference.When It May Be Recommended
Radical prostatectomy may be recommended for men with intermediate-risk or high-risk localized prostate cancer, younger patients who want definitive treatment, or when active surveillance is not appropriate due to cancer characteristics. The decision should involve shared decision-making between the patient and urologist.Diagnosis and Evaluation
Before prostatectomy, evaluation includes PSA blood test, digital rectal examination, prostate biopsy with Gleason scoring, MRI or CT imaging for staging, bone scan if indicated, and anesthesia fitness evaluation. A second opinion from a specialist may be valuable before making a treatment decision.Treatment Options
Treatment approaches for localized prostate cancer include: - **Active surveillance** — Regular monitoring for low-risk, slow-growing cancers - **Radical prostatectomy** — Surgical removal (open, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted) - **Radiation therapy** — External beam or brachytherapy (seed implants) - **Focal therapy** — Treating only the cancerous area (cryotherapy, HIFU) - **Hormone therapy** — Androgen deprivation for advanced or high-risk diseaseHow It Is Performed
Under general anesthesia, the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and surrounding tissues are removed. In open surgery, an incision is made in the lower abdomen. In robotic-assisted surgery, several small incisions are made for the robotic arms and camera. The bladder is reconnected to the urethra. A urinary catheter is placed and remains for 1-2 weeks.Preparation
Complete pre-operative evaluation including blood tests, imaging, EKG, and possibly cardiac clearance. You may need to stop blood-thinning medications. Bowel preparation may be recommended. If traveling abroad, plan for 7-14 days in-country and arrange a companion.Benefits and Expected Goals
Radical prostatectomy aims to remove all cancer cells and provide a cure for localized disease. It provides definitive pathological staging of the cancer. Outcomes depend on cancer stage, surgical approach, and surgeon experience. Some men may still require additional treatment if cancer recurs.Risks and Possible Complications
Risks include bleeding, infection, urinary incontinence (usually temporary but may be permanent in some cases), erectile dysfunction, injury to surrounding structures (rectum, ureters), lymphocele if lymph nodes are removed, and anesthesia complications. Nerve-sparing techniques reduce but do not eliminate erectile dysfunction risk.Recovery, Follow-up & Aftercare
Hospital stay is 1-3 days. The urinary catheter remains for 1-2 weeks. Most men return to desk work in 2-4 weeks and full activities in 6-8 weeks. PSA blood tests are performed regularly to monitor for cancer recurrence. Pelvic floor exercises help with urinary continence recovery.✅Safety Checklist Before Traveling
Use this checklist to help ensure your safety when planning medical treatment abroad.
- Verify hospital accreditation (JCI, ISO, TEMOS)
- Verify specialist credentials and board certification
- Get a written treatment plan from your doctor
- Get a written cost estimate with included/excluded items
- Arrange follow-up care with your local doctor
- Confirm medical visa and travel documents
- Consider medical travel insurance
- Keep copies of all medical records and reports
- Share your travel plans with a family member or companion
- Know the emergency contact numbers at your destination
🚨 When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following:
- • Severe chest pain or difficulty breathing
- • Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding
- • Sudden weakness, confusion, or loss of consciousness
- • Severe allergic reaction (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
- • High fever (above 101°F / 38.3°C) after a procedure
- • Worsening pain, redness, or swelling at a surgical site
- • Any symptom that feels severe, unexpected, or concerning to you
If you experience heavy bleeding, inability to urinate after catheter removal, signs of infection (fever above 101°F, chills), or sudden severe pain after prostate surgery, seek immediate medical attention.
🚨 If you have a life-threatening emergency, call local emergency services immediately. Do not wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
The two most common side effects are urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Both may improve over time with rehabilitation. Nerve-sparing techniques can help preserve erectile function in appropriate candidates. Your surgeon can discuss your individual risk based on age, cancer stage, and surgical approach.
Patients typically save 50-75% compared to US prices. Robotic prostatectomy abroad costs $5,000-$12,000 vs $20,000-$40,000 or more in the US.
Robotic-assisted surgery offers enhanced visualization and precision with smaller incisions, potentially reducing blood loss and recovery time. Open surgery allows direct tactile feedback. The best approach depends on cancer characteristics, surgeon experience, and patient factors.
Hospital stay is typically 1-3 days depending on the surgical approach. Plan for 7-14 days in-country for catheter removal and initial follow-up before flying home.
References
This section lists sources supporting the information on this page. Content is periodically reviewed for accuracy.
- • American Urological Association — Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer Guidelines
- • European Association of Urology — Prostate Cancer Guidelines