Robotic prostatectomy (prostate removal) which is meant to remove the entire cancerous prostate is a refined version of the laparoscopic prostatectomy. The advantage that laparoscopic or robotic surgery gives over the traditional open prostatectomy is smaller surgical entry points, quick recovery, less blood loss, less chance of infection, and less pain. Dr Fernando J Bianco the chief of Robotic Surgery at the Columbia University Division of Urology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach has performed many robotic surgeries.

Robotic prostatectomy does not imply that the robot is performing the surgery. The robot gives the surgeon the ability to be more precise then free hand surgery. This enhanced high resolution 3D magnified view using wristed miniature instruments that are controlled from a console, is a very different experience, then the traditional open surgery, and standard laparoscopic surgery. The Columbia University Division of Urology has brought Dr Bianco to South Florida to expand its Ivy League Medical program, which gives our residents assurance that the most experienced urological robotic surgeon is at the helm.

Prior to the minimally invasive robotic prostate cancer surgery our patients will have had a blood test called a PSA test or prostate specific antigen test from their regular doctor or a DRE (digital rectal exam). Either a high PSA or a lump or nodule was felt on the prostate by your doctor, which is why you were sent to the urologist. Some of our patients may have prostate cancer symptoms that would have them coming to visit our urology team. Prostate cancer symptoms may include:

• Trouble starting and stopping while voiding
• Burning during urination
• Frequent urination
• Blood in urine

Our urologists will then perform a prostate biopsy with ultrasound using local anesthesia and take 4 to 6 biopsies from each side of your prostate. A physical is performed by your doctor and you will also speak to the anesthesiologist about the type of anesthesia you will have. The night before the procedure you will have a bowel prep, stop eating or drinking, and follow any instructions from your anesthesiologist, regular doctor along with any instructions from medical specialists you may be seeing.

Robotic prostatectomy while a minimally invasive surgery still includes a hospital stay for a day or two. This gives time for the anesthesia to wear off and give you time to sit up and start walking so that you can go home comfortably.

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