Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

During this type of surgery, several long instruments, including a thin lighted tube with a small video camera to guide prostate removal, are inserted into the body through small incisions.

How it differs from traditional radical prostatectomy

It is possible for the surgeon to use a nerve-sparing approach and remove lymph nodes, if necessary, but the surgeon cannot use his/her hands to feel the prostate. It also may take longer than some of the other surgical approaches.

This surgery for prostate cancer has only been used since 1999 in America, so there are no long-term study results to report yet. According to the American Cancer Society, the rates of side effects for this approach are similar to traditional radical prostatectomy.

This approach, however, is more challenging for surgeons to learn. As with any approach, the skill and experience of the surgeon is paramount. Some have suggested that a surgeon must perform at least 250 open radical prostatectomies to become proficient in the technique while that "magic" number jumps to 750 for laparoscopic surgeries.

With any surgical approach for prostate cancer, the skill and experience of the surgeon are paramount. It's important to do your homework and make sure that you choose a surgeon who has "the best hands."

Recovery

Because smaller incisions are used, there may be less bleeding, less pain, a shorter hospital stay (generally often no more than a day), and a shorter recovery time.

Your loved one will need to have a catheter for the same length of time as with traditional radical prostatectomy—typically about 1 to 2 weeks.

Always discuss everything you read on this web site with a qualified medical professional.

Updated 10/09



Return to treatments

Radical retropubic prostatectomy
Radical perineal prostatectomy
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy

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