Issue #3: Robot Prostatectomy

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates that about 237,000 new cases will be diagnosed in 2006. Fortunately, with the advent of screening, prostate cancer is typically detected at a very early, curable stage. Different treatment options include surgery, radiation, freezing, hormonal therapy and observation. Surgery is an excellent treatment option for patients with presumed early stage disease and has traditionally been performed through a 6 to 8 inch midline incision in the lower abdomen. Following open radical prostatectomy, patients stay in the hospital 1 to 4 days, have a foley catheter in for 2-3 weeks, and return to work in 6-8 weeks.