When is robotic cancer surgery recommended for prostate cancer?

Robotic cancer surgery uses instruments controlled through small openings to remove the prostate and, when needed, nearby tissues. It is still major surgery; the robot does not make the treatment automatic or remove the need for an experienced surgical team.

The team considers the tumour’s grade, stage, prostate findings, imaging, biopsy information, age, general health, medicines, and baseline bladder and sexual function. Surgery is more often discussed when the cancer can be removed with an aim of local control. Radiotherapy, monitoring, or other approaches may also be appropriate depending on the situation.

Ask a urologic cancer team to review the biopsy and scans together and explain whether the cancer is localised, locally advanced, or has spread. Bring a list of medicines and previous operations, and describe urinary symptoms and erectile function honestly.

Before deciding, ask how the operation would affect continence, erections, fertility considerations, recovery, and the possibility of additional treatment. Read about [Prostate Cancer](/conditions/prostate-cancer/) and [Robotic Cancer Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/robotic-cancer-surgery/) for background.

Contact the treating team promptly for inability to pass urine, heavy bleeding, fever, worsening pelvic pain, or new leg swelling. After surgery, urgent assessment is also needed for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or sudden confusion.

Which features of my cancer make surgery suitable or unsuitable? What other treatments could control it? How might this operation affect urine control and erections? What preparation, hospital stay, catheter care, and follow-up should I expect?