Prostate cancer surgery is the first type of treatment in case of prostate cancer. The prostate is a gland in the male reproductive system. By now, prostate cancer is one of the most serious illnesses in the modern world, and the most common kind of cancer in men worldwide.
The illness happens when cells in the prostate begin to grow and multiply fast and out of control. The cells might even begin to spread to other parts of the body, like the lymph nodes and the bones.
Prostate cancer surgery
In case of cancer, the doctor often needs to take out all of the prostate. The most common type of prostate surgery is the Retropubic Prostatectomy. Here the doctor will take the prostate out through a cut in the belly.
Radical Perineal Prostatectomy
Another type of prostate cancer surgery is the radical perineal prostatectomy. In this type of surgery, the doctor takes the prostate out through a small cut in the skin between the scrotum and the anus.
Prostate cancer surgery: possible risks and complications
There are certain problems with prostate cancer surgery. However, thanks to new methods and modern instruments, this kind of surgery has less side effects than in the old days.
Impotence
But some of the problems are still there. During surgery the nerves for erection may be damaged and the patient will become impotent.
Incontinence
Also the part that controls the release of urine from the bladder could suffer from the surgery. This means that the patient will be not be able anymore to stay dry in his pants. He may need to use pads for catching urine for the rest of his life.
Fortunately, in some cases, common side effects like erectile dysfuncion and incontinence will get better again within a couple of month after surgery.
Are you well informed about what will happen?
It is very important to discuss all possible prostate cancer treatments with your doctor, before starting with any kind of therapy.
Make sure that you understand why you need the therapy, the expected results, and the risks of the treatment.
Will your insurance cover all costs?
Contact your insurance company and ask about the costs of the treatment. Your insurance may not cover everything. That is something you would want to know before you make a decision.
The more you know about what is going to happen, the more relaxed you will feel. And you need to be relaxed and focused to make the best decisions about your health and how to beat prostate cancer.