If you have a significantly enlarged prostate and medications or other treatments are no longer providing enough relief, your urologist may discuss simple prostatectomy as a treatment option for severe benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). But what is the difference between a robotic simple prostatectomy and an open simple prostatectomy? In this episode of UroPatient, hosted by Vic Senese, RN, BSN, FAUNA, and joined by co-host Laurie Atkinson, RN, FAUNA, we take a closer look at these two surgical approaches and explain what patients may want to know before discussing simple prostatectomy with their urologist. A simple prostatectomy removes the enlarged inner portion of the prostate that is causing urinary obstruction. It is different from a radical prostatectomy, which removes the prostate as part of prostate cancer treatment. In this episode, we discuss: • What a simple prostatectomy is• Why simple prostatectomy may be recommended for men with a very large prostate• The difference between robotic simple prostatectomy and open simple prostatectomy• How the two procedures are performed• The role of robotic-assisted surgery• Incisions and surgical access• Hospital recovery and length of stay• Urinary catheter considerations after surgery• Possible differences in pain and recovery• Bleeding and other potential complications• How urinary symptoms may improve after surgery• Recovery at home• When patients may return to normal activities• Questions to ask your urologist before choosing a surgical approach Robotic-assisted simple prostatectomy uses several small abdominal incisions and robotic surgical instruments controlled by the surgeon. The approach may offer advantages such as smaller incisions and potentially easier recovery for some patients. Open simple prostatectomy uses a larger incision to access the prostate. Although it is a more traditional surgical approach, it remains an important option for selected patients, particularly those with very large prostates or specific anatomical considerations. So, is robotic simple prostatectomy better than open surgery? There isn't one answer for every patient. The best approach depends on factors such as prostate size, anatomy, previous abdominal or prostate procedures, the surgeon's experience, available technology, overall health, and the patient's individual goals and preferences. The purpose of this episode is to help patients understand the conversation they should have with their urologist before making a treatment decision. If you or someone you know has BPH, an enlarged prostate, urinary obstruction, weak urine flow, urinary retention, or is considering prostate surgery, this episode can help you understand some of the terminology and questions surrounding simple prostatectomy. Hosted by Vic Senese, RN, BSN, FAUNA 👉 Subscribe to my UroNurse YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@UroNurse1 simple prostatectomy, robotic simple prostatectomy, open simple prostatectomy, robotic vs open prostatectomy, BPH surgery, enlarged prostate surgery, benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH treatment, prostate surgery, robotic prostate surgery, prostatectomy recovery, large prostate treatment, urinary obstruction, urinary retention, urology, urology nurse, UroPatient, Vic Senese #OpenProstatectomy #BPH #EnlargedProstate #BPHSurgery #ProstateSurgery #Urology #UroPatient #UroNurse #MensHealth #ProstateHealth The expert's opinions in this communication are personal and not representative of any organization. They are for informational purposes only, not official guidance. Viewers are advised to use their judgment, seek additional advice, and take responsibility for any actions based on these opinions.
