Minimally Invasive Surgery for Prostate Cancer
Filed Under Surgery |
Men who require surgery on their prostate gland have more choices today, thanks to a process called Minimally Invasive Surgery, according to Health Notes, a publication from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.
An October newsletter titled Health Notes from Washington University physicians said urologists lead the way in laparoscopic prostate surgery, which benefits the patient over traditional open surgery.
Minimally invasive surgery, sometimes called laparoscopic surgery, is performed through multiple small incisions, one-quarter to one-fourth inches long, using specially designed surgical instruments and viewed through a laparoscope, or surgical telescope. These tiny incisions mean shorter hospital stay, less pain, less bleeding and a much quicker recovery.
He said that even with radical prostatectomy, when the entire prostate gland is removed, laparoscopic surgery is as safe and effective as any surgical procedure. Also, it is the method preferred for men who are overweight.
The report said that nerve and tissue-sparing methods have greatly reduced the after-effects of such surgery, which may include urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction. Patients can go back to work or resume full activity in two to three weeks.
The minimally invasive surgery process is performed through small incisions, using specialized instruments: miniature cameras with microscopes and tiny fiber optic flashlights. Because the surgeon views the inside of the body through a camera, the aim is accurate and surrounding organs are less affected. With the less-invasive technique, patients recover faster, have less bleeding, and less need for pain medication.
Thus, the report said, a patient can opt for minimally invasive surgery to get back to normal activities quicker, with less pain and scarring. It was said that highly trained surgeons with years of experience make a significant difference in the successful outcome of these surgeries.
The Washington University Institute for Minimally Invasive Surgery is the largest group of minimally invasive surgeons in America. The newsletter said they lead the way in laparoscopic techniques, especially for complex cases like prostate cancer.
Moreover, the report said, if your doctor recommends surgery for problems with the digestive tract, heart, hernia, gallbladder, spine, colon, as well as the prostate, the patient should consider minimally invasive surgery. He then should ask his doctor to refer him to a Washington University physician. Patients can call TOP-DOCS at 314-867-3627 for more information.
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