Robotically Assisted Prostate Cancer Surgery

In 2017, the hospital invested over $3 million in the Da Vinci Xi surgical robotic system to allow minimally invasive procedures to be conducted primarily in the field of urology.

The revolutionary improvements in medical surgical technology have had a great impact on prostate cancer treatment and prostatectomy. Buderim Private Hospital is committed to utilising the latest technological advancements to improve the treatments available to our patients.

The introduction of this service was closely developed and implemented with support from The Wesley Hospital, which like Buderim Private Hospital, is also part of the UnitingCare Health. The Wesley Hospital has the largest robotic program in Australia and was the first hospital in the country with two Da Vinci surgical robotic systems.

TSCPH team with Da Vinci robot 301017_website

What is robotic surgery?

Robotic surgery is minimally invasive surgery involving the use of a computer to control surgical instruments attached to robotic arms.

In the operating theatre the surgeon uses controls to move a camera and instruments inside a patient’s body. Robotic surgery enables surgeons to perform precise and delicate procedures with only small incisions.

There are many benefits from robotic surgery, as it is minimally invasive, including less post operative pain, less blood loss, less scarring, shorter hospital stay, and faster return to normal activities for patients.

What is the da Vinci Surgical System?

The da Vinci Surgical System uses robotic technology to allow the surgeons hand movements to be translated into smaller, precise movements of small instruments inside the patient’s body.

The da Vinci System enables surgeons better vision of surgery, with its 3D camera, as well as greater precision. The hospital offers prostate cancer patients a range of treatment options including robotically assisted prostate surgery. In consultation with their urologist, patients have access to the treatment option that is most appropriate for them.

Frequently asked questions about robotic prostate surgery

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Frequently asked questions about robotic prostate surgery

How is robotic prostatectomy performed?

A robotic prostatectomy is also referred to as a robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy. The surgeon makes several small incisions in your lower abdomen to remove the prostate. He or she sits at a console, using instruments attached to a mechanical device (robot). Using the robotic device allows a more precise response to movement of the surgeon's hands.
How is the prostate removed in robotic surgery?

The surgeon controls the robotic prostate surgery robotic arms from the robot console using natural hand and wrist movements. Robotic prostatectomy is designed to allow greater precision than is normally achievable in open and laparoscopic prostatectomy surgery.
How long does a robotic prostatectomy take?

Typically it takes 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the size of the prostate, the patient's anatomy and constitution, and the extent of surgery.
What are the advantages to having a robotic assisted prostatectomy?
- Shorter hospital stay
- Quicker return to normal activity
- Reduced pain
- Less blood loss
- Less scarring
- Less risk of infection
How long will I be in hospital after robotic prostatectomy/ how long is recovery from robotic prostatectomy?

The majority of patients are discharged the day after surgery. However, the time of discharge is decided on a case-by-case basis. By the second night, most of our patients are comfortable enough to go home.
How many incisions for robotic prostatectomy?

Approximately five to six small keyhole (<1cm) incisions are made.
Does the da Vinci prostatectomy robot perform the operation?

Absolutely not! The robot is completely under the control of the surgeon. The robotic arms enable the surgeon to operate in small spaces in the abdomen
.
Am I a good candidate for a da Vinci robotic prostatectomy?

Men who are diagnosed with a localised prostate cancer are candidates for this procedure. The indications for this surgery are very similar to open surgery.
Will medical insurance cover the cost of my robotic surgery?

This depends on your private medical insurance policy. Please consult your private medical insurance company for clarification of what is covered by your policy.