Patients considering surgery for prostate cancer often have many of the same questions. This page gathers robotic prostatectomy FAQs in one place, with short answers and links to more detailed articles. Your own specialist can explain how each answer applies to you.
What is a robotic prostatectomy?
It is a minimally invasive operation to remove the whole prostate gland. The surgeon controls fine instruments from a console, viewing a magnified 3D image. The robot does not act on its own; every movement is made by the surgeon. The surgeon is supported by a bedside assistant and the theatre team throughout.
Who is suitable?
It is usually offered to men whose cancer is confined to the prostate or has spread only a short distance beyond it. Suitability depends on the stage and grade of the cancer, age, general health, function before surgery and individual anatomy. Our article on whether you are a candidate explains the factors involved.
How does it compare with open surgery?
Robotic surgery uses small incisions rather than one large cut. It usually means less blood loss, less pain, a shorter hospital stay and a faster return to daily life. Cancer control is comparable in experienced hands.
What is the SAFE technique?
SAFE stands for Saline-Assisted Fascial Exposure. Developed by Professor Dasgupta, it uses a small amount of saline to separate the prostate gently from the nerves beside it, making them easier to see and protect. Our article on the SAFE technique explains it in detail.
How long will I be in hospital?
Most men stay one to two days.
How long will I have a catheter?
The catheter usually stays in for one to two weeks while the join between the bladder and urethra heals.
When can I return to normal activities?
Light activities are usually possible within two to three weeks. Normal work and more strenuous activity typically resume at six to eight weeks, depending on your job and recovery. Our recovery timeline gives a week-by-week guide.
Will I regain bladder control?
Most men do. Bladder control often improves over weeks to months, helped by pelvic floor exercises started before surgery. The NHS explains how to do pelvic floor exercises.
Will I regain erections?
Recovery is gradual and may take up to a year or longer, even when the nerves are preserved. It depends on function before surgery, age, general health and whether nerve-sparing was possible. Rehabilitation treatments can help.
How effective is it at controlling the cancer?
The removed prostate is examined to check whether the margins, or edges, are clear. Clear margins suggest the cancer has been fully removed. Regular PSA tests then monitor for any recurrence.
What are the risks?
As with any major operation, risks include bleeding, infection and blood clots. Others include urinary leakage, erectile difficulties, narrowing where the bladder joins the urethra and, rarely, injury to nearby organs. Our guide to robotic prostatectomy risks explains each one.
What should I ask my surgeon?
Useful questions include:
- How many robotic prostatectomies have you performed?
- What are your continence and erectile function results?
- Will nerve-sparing be possible for me?
- What is your positive margin rate?
- How will my recovery and follow-up be managed?
Is robotic prostatectomy widely available in the UK?
Yes, but experience varies between centres and surgeons. Professor Dasgupta was among the first to introduce robotic prostatectomy in the UK and continues to develop new techniques. Choosing an experienced surgeon is strongly recommended.
Where can I find independent information?
Prostate Cancer UK offers clear information and a specialist nurse helpline.
Still have questions?
Professor Dasgupta is happy to answer any questions about robotic prostatectomy and whether it is right for you. Please contact the clinic to arrange a consultation.