Prostate cancer surgery

The operation is commonly called a prostatectomy. Depending on the cancer and surgical plan, the surgeon may remove the prostate and seminal vesicles, and may assess nearby lymph nodes. The approach can be open or minimally invasive, including robotic assistance. Surgery can affect urine control and erections, so these effects should be discussed before choosing treatment. Read about [Prostate Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/prostatectomy/) and [Robotic Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/robotic-cancer-surgery/).

Before surgery, review medicines, medical conditions, anaesthesia, catheter care, wound care, and pelvic-floor rehabilitation. Arrange help with transport and early activities. Recovery is gradual; follow instructions about walking, lifting, fluids, and follow-up testing. Ask how surgery compares with [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) or [Brachytherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/brachytherapy/) for your cancer features and priorities.

Call the surgical team for fever, increasing wound redness, worsening pain, persistent vomiting, heavy bleeding, or a catheter that stops draining. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or sudden confusion. Inability to pass urine after catheter removal also needs prompt assessment; see [Difficulty Passing Urine](/symptoms/difficulty-passing-urine/) for context.

Why is surgery suitable for me? Which tissues will be removed? What are the plans for catheter care, continence support, sexual-health support, pathology review, and follow-up?