Prostate
cancer is the most common cancer in men. It is important to know about
the different types of prostate surgeries so you can make an informed
decision with your doctor. This article will provide an overview of the
different types of prostate surgeries and their risks and benefits.
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
A transurethral resection of the prostate, also known as a TURP, is a
type of prostate surgery that is used to treat men with symptomatic benign
prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The goal of the surgery is to relieve urinary
obstruction and improve urinary flow.
The surgery is performed by inserting a resectoscope through the urethra
and into the prostate. The resectoscope has a tiny camera and light at
its tip, which allow the surgeon to see the prostate tissue. The surgeon
then uses a wire loop to remove the tissue that is blocking the urethra.
TURP is considered to be a safe and effective surgery for BPH, with a
low risk of complications. The most common complication is bleeding, which
usually resolves on its own. Other potential complications include urinary
retention, urine incontinence, erectile dysfunction, and retrograde ejaculation.
If you are considering TURP surgery for BPH, talk to your doctor about
the risks and benefits.
Open radical prostatectomy
If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, your treatment options
will likely include some type of surgery. One common type of surgery is
an open radical prostatectomy.
During an open radical prostatectomy, the surgeon makes an incision in
the lower abdomen and removes the entire prostate gland. This surgery
usually takes about two to three hours, under general anesthesia, and
may also involve removing the surrounding lymph nodes.
Open radical prostatectomy is a highly effective treatment for prostate
cancer, with rates of cure rates exceeding 90%. However, it can also cause
serious side effects, including urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction.
These side effects are usually temporary, but can sometimes be permanent.
If you are considering an open radical prostatectomy, be sure to discuss
the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy
There are many different types of prostate surgeries, but laparoscopic
radical prostatectomy is one of the most effective. The surgery involves
removal of the entire prostate gland and surrounding tissue through small
incisions in the abdominal wall. Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is
often performed as a minimally invasive procedure, which means that it
has fewer side effects and a shorter recovery time than traditional open
surgery.
Robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy is an open surgery
to remove the prostate gland and surrounding tissue. The surgeon makes
several small incisions in the lower abdomen and inserts a thin, tube-like
camera called a laparoscope.
The laparoscope transmits images of the prostate gland to a computer screen,
which the surgeon uses to guide surgical instruments. Robotic-assisted
surgery is less invasive than traditional open surgery and often results
in fewer complications, less pain, and a shorter hospital stay.
Minimally invasive radical prostatectomy
There are many different types of prostate surgeries, but one of the most
popular is minimally invasive radical prostatectomy. The surgery is performed
through small incisions in the lower abdomen and does not require a large
abdominal incision.
The surgeon will remove the prostate gland completely along with some
surrounding tissues. The surgery is often done as an outpatient procedure
and has a shorter recovery time than traditional open surgery.
Transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT)
If you are considering prostate surgery, you may be wondering what your
options are. One option is transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT).
This type of surgery uses microwaves to heat and destroy tissue in the
prostate. It is typically done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you
can go home the same day.
TUMT is less invasive than some other types of prostate surgery, and has
a shorter recovery time. However, it is not suitable for all men, and
there is a risk of side effects such as urinary incontinence and erectile
dysfunction. If you are considering TUMT, talk to your doctor about whether
it is right for you.
High-intensity
focused ultrasound (HIFU)
High-intensity
focused ultrasound (HIFU) is a noninvasive, targeted therapy that uses
ultrasound energy to heat and destroy cancer cells. HIFU can be used to
treat a variety of cancers, including prostate, breast, pancreatic, and
liver cancer.
The use of
HIFU for cancer treatment is still relatively new, but it is showing promise
as a safe and effective treatment option with minimal side effects. Clinical
trials are ongoing to further evaluate the effectiveness of HIFU for various
types of cancer.
