Why Surgery?
'Currently, radical prostatectomy is the only treatment for localised prostate cancer that has shown a cancer-specific survival benefit...in a prospective, randomized trial.'
European Association of Urologists Guidelines on Prostate Cancer, 2008.
Which Surgeon?
The medical literature demonstrates a strong link between surgeon caseload and outcome after radical prostatectomy [Brausi, 2006]. In the bar chart below taken from the British Association of Urological Surgeons operations database analysis, I am consultant #71.
Why Laparoscopy?
Laparoscopy is a technique of performing a surgical operation using instruments inserted through narrow hollow tubes ('ports') rather than through a larger incision, as in traditional surgery. The result is shorter hospitalisation and convalescence, less bleeding and post-operative pain and fewer wound complications.
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Ports placed for laparoscopic
radical prostatectomy |
Incision for traditional
radical prostatectomy |
Although laparoscopy is a type of keyhole surgery, the view obtained is much better than looking through a keyhole. Modern equipment produces a wide, bright, clear and magnified view of the operation. The gas used to distend the abdomen during laparoscopy also greatly reduces bleeding during surgery.
