RALP - Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy

What is a Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy (RALP)?

A robotic-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) is a minimally invasive surgery used to remove the prostate gland in men with prostate cancer. This advanced procedure is performed using robotic technology, allowing the surgeon to operate with exceptional precision and control. RALP involves smaller incisions, faster recovery, and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery. It is usually recommended when prostate cancer is localised to the prostate and surgery is the best treatment option to remove cancerous tissue and reduce the risk of cancer spreading.

When is RALP is recommended?

RALP is often advised for men diagnosed with localised prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and early detection and treatment are crucial to preventing the disease from spreading.

RALP may be the best option if:

• The prostate cancer is confined to the prostate.
• Surgery is considered the optimal treatment for removing the cancer.
• You are in good overall health and a suitable candidate for surgery.

By removing cancerous tissue, RALP helps lower the long-term risks of untreated or advanced prostate cancer while offering excellent cancer control outcomes.

What does the procedure involve?

RALP is performed under general anaesthesia to ensure you remain asleep and pain-free throughout the surgery. The surgeon uses a robotic system to guide small surgical instruments through a few tiny incisions in your abdomen.

During the procedure:

• The robotic system enhances the surgeon's precision and dexterity, especially around delicate structures like the nerves controlling urinary continence and erectile function.
• The prostate and any surrounding affected tissue are removed with minimal disruption to nearby organs.
• A catheter is placed in the bladder to help drain urine while the area heals.

The surgery usually takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of your case. Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 nights before being discharged.

What are the benefits of RALP?

• Minimally invasive: Smaller incisions mean less scarring, reduced blood loss, and lower risk of infection.
• Shorter recovery time: Patients typically resume light activities within 2 to 3 weeks and normal routines in 4 to 6 weeks.
• Improved precision: Robotic technology allows the surgeon to target the prostate with greater accuracy, protecting nearby structures.
• Reduced pain: Smaller incisions and advanced techniques result in less postoperative discomfort.
• Effective cancer control: RALP is highly effective at removing cancerous tissue, offering excellent long-term outcomes.

What are the potential risks and complications?

While RALP is considered safe, all surgeries carry some risks. Possible complications include:

• Infection: A small risk of infection at the surgical site or in the urinary tract.
• Bleeding: Rare but may occur during or after surgery.
• Urinary incontinence: Temporary bladder control issues are common but usually improve over time with pelvic floor exercises.
• Erectile dysfunction: Although nerve-sparing techniques reduce this risk, erectile function may be affected temporarily or permanently.
• Blood clots: A small risk of clots in the legs or lungs after surgery.

Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you in detail and provide strategies to minimise complications.

Recovery after RALP

Recovery from RALP is quicker than traditional open surgery.

Here’s what to expect:

• Hospital stay: Most patients stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 nights.
• Pain relief: You may experience mild discomfort in the days following surgery, which can be managed with pain relief medication.
• Physical activity: Light activities can usually be resumed within 2 to 3 weeks. Avoid heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, or abdominal strain for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

Catheter care:

• The catheter placed during surgery is typically removed 1 to 2 weeks later at a follow-up appointment.
• Some temporary urinary incontinence is normal and improves with time. Pelvic floor exercises can help regain bladder control.

Long-term outcomes

RALP is highly effective for treating prostate cancer and offers significant benefits for cancer control, urinary function, and overall quality of life.

• Most patients experience relief from cancer symptoms and return to their normal routines within a few weeks.
• Temporary side effects, such as urinary incontinence and erectile dysfunction, typically improve with follow-up care and rehabilitation.
• Long-term cancer control is excellent, and patients may feel confident about their prognosis with regular monitoring and support.

RALP is a cutting-edge treatment that combines advanced technology with expert surgical care to provide the best possible outcomes for prostate cancer patients.