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Radical perineal prostatectomy

Radical perineal prostatectomy is generally presented as an option for men who cannot undergo retropubic surgery due to other medical problems, or if the surgeon believes there is little chance that the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

How it differs from radical retropubic prostatectomy

This procedure for prostate removal is generally a shorter surgery. According to the American Cancer Society, recovery may also be less painful.

During this surgery for prostate cancer, an incision is made under the man’s scrotum, in front of his rectum.

Lymph nodes cannot be viewed or removed with the same incision. The surgeon also cannot easily view and save the nerve bundles. So it is not a nerve-sparing approach.

Recovery

Like radical retropubic prostatectomy, a man’s hospital stay is generally 2 to 3 days following surgery, and 3 to 5 weeks of recovery time at home. He will also need to have a catheter for up to 2 weeks.

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

Updated 10/09



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

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References:

The American Cancer Society. Prostate Cancer. http://www.cancer.org. Accessed September 1, 2009.

Walsh PC. Guide to Surviving Prostate Cancer. New York, NY: Time Warner Book Group; 2001.


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