Prostate Cancer – Laparoscopic Prostatectomy

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, especially those over the age of 50. This cancer begins in the tissue of the prostate, a gland located below the bladder and surrounding the urethra. In many cases, prostate cancer does not show symptoms until it reaches a more advanced stage. Symptoms that may indicate prostate cancer include frequent urination, difficulty starting and maintaining a urine stream, the presence of blood in the urine or semen, pain during ejaculation, and pain in the lower back, pelvis, or thighs.

The diagnosis of prostate cancer starts with checking the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Doctors may use several methods to diagnose this cancer, including a digital rectal exam, where the doctor feels the prostate with a finger through the rectum, looking for abnormalities. Another important test is measuring the level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the blood, which can be elevated in prostate cancer. If these tests indicate potential problems, a prostate biopsy may be recommended, where a tissue sample is taken for microscopic analysis.

Laparoscopic prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgical method used to remove the prostate in cases of prostate cancer. This procedure involves making several small incisions in the abdomen through which surgical instruments and a camera are inserted. The surgeon then removes the prostate and sometimes nearby lymph nodes using these instruments, guided by images sent by the camera. The laparoscopic method has advantages over traditional open surgery, including less pain post-operation, shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and fewer scars. However, like any surgery, there are risks such as infections, bleeding, and potential problems with urinary and sexual function, which are discussed in detail with the patient before surgery.