Robotic-Assisted Simple Prostatectomy Provides Relief for Men With Urinary Issues

    Dr. J. Dudley Atkinson – Atkinson performs these surgeries along with a full complement of traditional urologic services at Ochsner Medical Center – Baton Rouge, Ochsner Health Center – Summa, and Ochsner Health Center – Prairieville.
    Nearly all men experience prostate enlargement as they age, also referred to as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).  Symptoms can include extremely slow urination, frequent urinary tract infections, urinary retention, frequent bleeding from the prostate, bladder stones, and even damage to the kidneys. These problems can severely interfere with your daily life and affect the quality of life you live.
    If you suffer from any of these symptoms of BPH, your doctor likely will suggest a procedure known as simple prostatectomy. This involves removing the inner part of the prostate gland pressing against the urethra. There are several different methods used to perform simple prostatectomy, but robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy is the latest advancement in this type of surgical technology and is also less invasive than traditional open surgery.
    Robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy is done by making five small incisions (one-quarter to one-half inch each) in the lower abdomen where advanced optics provide 10-times magnified, three-dimensional images of the prostate and surrounding nerves and tissues, and robotic arms eliminate even the slightest human hand tremors. So in addition to being less invasive than open surgery, there also is less blood loss, less post-operative pain, and a quicker recovery. 
    Note that this procedure differs from a radical prostatectomy, which is used to treat prostate cancer and remove the entire prostate gland. Simple prostatectomy removes just parts of the prostate that are causing complications from enlargement.
    As with all surgeries, simple prostatectomy comes with a few risks. These include incontinence, urethral stricture, infertility, and injury to internal organs.  A patient’s age and overall health also will make a difference in his recovery. With the absence of complications, patients should see a complete recovery in six weeks and regain normal urinary tract function.  The blood loss and hospital stay of a simple prostatectomy are shortened a great deal by using the robotic surgery system.
    For more information or for an appointment, please call 225-761-5200.