Robotic prostatectomy (also called robot-assisted radical prostatectomy) is one of the most advanced surgical techniques for prostate cancer. Professor Prokar Dasgupta—an internationally recognised pioneer of robotic urology—provides expertise in this field.
Here we answer the most frequently asked questions from patients considering robotic prostatectomy.
What is a robotic prostatectomy?
Robotic prostatectomy is a minimally invasive operation to remove the prostate gland, using the da Vinci robotic system. The surgeon controls fine robotic instruments from a console, which provides magnified 3D vision and tremor-free precision.
This allows accurate dissection of delicate tissues and nerves, aiming to remove cancer effectively while reducing side effects.
Learn more about robotic prostatectomy.
Who is suitable for robotic prostatectomy?
It is usually offered to men with prostate cancer that is still localised (confined to the prostate or surrounding area). Suitability depends on:
- Stage and grade of the cancer
- Patient’s age and overall health
- Baseline urinary and sexual function
- Individual anatomy
Your consultant will review scans, biopsies, and health status before recommending surgery.
What are the benefits compared to open surgery?
Robotic prostatectomy offers several potential advantages over traditional open or laparoscopic approaches:
- Smaller incisions and less scarring
- Reduced blood loss
- Shorter hospital stay (often 1–2 days)
- Faster recovery and return to daily life
- Better visualisation for the surgeon, supporting nerve preservation
What is the SAFE technique?
Professor Dasgupta has pioneered the Saline-Assisted Fascial Exposure (SAFE) technique, which gently separates the prostate from the surrounding nerves using a saline injection.
This improves visibility and helps preserve the neurovascular bundles that are vital for erectile function, reducing the risk of nerve damage.
Read about the SAFE technique.
What risks should I be aware of?
As with all major surgery, risks exist, including:
- Bleeding and infection
- Temporary or persistent urinary incontinence
- Erectile dysfunction if nerves are affected
- Injury to nearby structures (bladder, rectum, ureters)
- Narrowing of the urethra or bladder neck
Your surgeon will discuss your individual risk profile.
How long is recovery?
Recovery varies but most patients can expect:
- Hospital stay: 1–2 days
- Catheter: usually removed after about a week
- Light activities: within 2–3 weeks
- Normal work/strenuous activity: 6–8 weeks
- Urinary control: often improves over weeks to months
- Erectile function: gradual recovery, which may take up to a year if nerves are preserved
Will I regain continence and erections?
Outcomes depend on:
- Your baseline function before surgery
- Age and overall health
- Extent of cancer and whether nerve sparing is possible
- Surgeon’s experience and technique
Robotic techniques, especially with SAFE nerve sparing, aim to maximise continence and potency preservation.
How effective is robotic prostatectomy at controlling cancer?
Cancer control is assessed by examining the surgical margins (edges of removed tissue). If margins are clear, the cancer has likely been fully removed.
Regular PSA blood tests are used to monitor recurrence. Robotic surgery allows precise dissection, balancing cancer removal with quality of life outcomes.
What should I ask my surgeon?
Before surgery, consider asking:
- How many robotic prostatectomies have you performed?
- What are your continence and potency outcomes?
- Will nerve-sparing be possible in my case?
- What is your rate of positive margins?
- How will my recovery and follow-up be managed?
Is robotic prostatectomy widely available in the UK?
Yes, but experience varies between centres. Professor Dasgupta was among the first to introduce robotic prostatectomy in the UK and continues to develop new techniques.
Choosing an experienced surgeon is highly recommended.
Final thoughts
Robotic prostatectomy combines cutting-edge technology with surgical expertise to deliver precise treatment for prostate cancer. Patients benefit from less invasive surgery, quicker recovery, and, with nerve-sparing techniques, a higher chance of preserving continence and sexual function.
Hopefully this help to answer some of the Frequently Asked Questions about robotic prostatectomy. To learn more or arrange a consultation, visit the Robotic Prostatectomy page on Prokar.co.uk.