Robotic Operation for Prostate Cancer: What to Know

The surgeon sits at a console and guides instruments that enter through small openings. The system does not operate independently. Depending on the cancer and its location, the surgeon removes the prostate and may also assess or remove nearby lymph nodes. The aim is to remove the cancer while preserving important structures when this is medically appropriate.

After surgery, a urinary catheter is usually needed while the connection between the bladder and urethra heals. Temporary leakage of urine can occur, and some people need pelvic floor exercises or other support. Erectile function may also change because nerves near the prostate can be affected. Recovery differs according to the operation, general health, and whether additional treatment is needed. Robotic surgery is one approach to prostatectomy; open surgery and non-surgical options such as radiotherapy may also be discussed.

Before treatment, ask which prostate cancer features support surgery, what will happen to the catheter, and how your team will monitor the cancer afterward. Tell the surgical team about medicines, allergies, previous operations, and any difficulty passing urine. Arrange help with washing, shopping, and driving during the early recovery period. Follow instructions about walking, wound care, lifting, and drinking fluids; do not restart medicines or strenuous activity without checking the plan.

Your follow-up may include a prostate-specific antigen blood test and review of urinary, bowel, and sexual changes. If cancer remains or returns, your team may discuss further treatment. Read more about [Prostate Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/prostatectomy/) and [Robotic Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/robotic-cancer-surgery/). Other options may include [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) or [Brachytherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/brachytherapy/).

Contact your surgical team promptly for fever, worsening redness or swelling around an incision, pus, increasing pain, repeated vomiting, or urine that becomes difficult to pass. Seek urgent medical help for heavy bleeding, severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or sudden one-sided leg swelling. A small amount of blood in the urine can occur after urinary surgery, but increasing bleeding or clots need medical advice.

Ask: Is robotic prostatectomy suitable for the stage and position of my cancer? Will lymph nodes be assessed? What urinary and sexual effects are possible in my situation? How long might the catheter remain? What symptoms should prompt a same-day call? When will my first follow-up test take place, and what other treatments could be considered?