Benefits of the UVa da Vinci prostatectomy

A traditional prostatectomy is done by making a large incision in the lower abdomen. The prostate is then removed surgically and the abdomen closed wtih sutures. Because the surgery opens the abdominal cavity, the patient will typically lose from 500 to 750 ml of blood during the procedure.

The da Vinci technology allows the surgeon to complete the same procedure through two small incisions -- eliminating the need for a large incision. Surgical arms enter the body through 1 cm incisions.  These are controlled by the surgeon from a special console that magnifies and enhances the view of the surgery. (For more information about how it works, click here).

Moreover, sewing the bladder to the remaining urethra is easier and more precise. 

All this can translate into key potential benefits for patients

  • Minimal blood loss
  • Reduced likelihood of infection
  • Faster recovery time
  • Less anesthesia
  • Reduced scarring
  • Quicker catheter removal and less use of drainage tubes
  • Greater surgical precision, which in turn means
    • more accurate removal of cancer and
    • potential reduced risk of impotence and incontinence