What should you know about removal of prostate gland?

Prostate removal surgery, also called prostatectomy, is performed through an open or minimally invasive approach. The surgeon may remove the seminal vesicles and assess nearby lymph nodes, depending on the treatment plan. Because the prostate surrounds part of the urine channel and lies close to nerves involved in erections, recovery can affect urine control and sexual function. The operation is different from Brachytherapy or Radiotherapy, which treat with radiation rather than removing the gland.

Before surgery, review medicines that affect bleeding, anaesthesia instructions, catheter care, and plans for help at home. Afterward, follow wound and catheter instructions, walk as advised, drink according to your team’s guidance, and attend appointments for catheter removal and recovery assessment. Pelvic floor exercises may be introduced when your clinician says they are appropriate. Ask about continence support and options for erection recovery rather than assuming improvement follows the same timetable for everyone.

Contact the surgical team urgently for fever, worsening wound redness, heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, a blocked catheter, or inability to pass urine after its removal. Seek emergency care for chest pain, severe breathlessness, sudden leg swelling, or fainting. Small amounts of blood in the urine can occur after urinary surgery, but follow the discharge instructions for what is expected and when to call.

Ask which surgical approach is planned, whether lymph nodes will be assessed, how catheter care works, what urinary and sexual effects are possible, and how alternatives fit your cancer findings and priorities.