Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy: 12 Essential Questions to Ask Before Surgery

1 to 4 - Understanding why surgical removal is recommended

1. What is my exact risk group and clinical stage? Request clear explanations of your PSA kinetics, mpMRI, biopsy grade (Gleason/ISUP), and staging scans.

2. Why is surgery the chosen approach for me? Radical prostatectomy is not the only valid strategy; depending on risk and life expectancy, active surveillance, radiation, or brachytherapy may exist.

3. Why robotic approach instead of conventional laparoscopy or open surgery? Your surgeon should outline concrete benefits for your anatomy without unrealistic promises.

4. Can neurovascular bundles be spared? Nerve-sparing feasibility depends on tumor location and capsule extension; oncological cure remains the supreme priority.

5 to 8 - Anticipating post-operative recovery

5. How long will the urinary catheter remain in place? Duration varies according to technical complexity, anastomotic healing, and clinical progress.

6. When can I walk, travel, drive, and resume normal work? For international patients, discharge from the clinic does not mean immediate clearance for long-haul flights.

7. What is the rehabilitation protocol for urinary continence? Temporary post-operative leakage is common; pelvic floor physical therapy often forms an integral component of recovery.

8. What is the plan for sexual rehabilitation? Erectile recovery depends on baseline function, age, nerve-sparing status, and structured post-operative protocol.

9 to 12 - Clinical safety, pathology, and long-term surveillance

9. What specific risks apply to my health profile? Bleeding, infection, lymphatic leaks, anesthetic risks, and urinary or sexual changes should be clearly reviewed.

10. When will final surgical pathology results arrive? Microscopic examination of the prostate specimen defines the final pathological stage, margin status, and lymph node assessment.

11. When will the first post-operative PSA test be performed? Ultra-sensitive PSA follow-up adheres to a rigorous schedule established by your care team.

12. How is remote surveillance structured if I live abroad? Clarify how lab results will be transmitted and what symptoms necessitate immediate local medical review.

The bonus question: 'What finding would change your recommendation?'

This question reveals the clinical decision logic. An optimal surgical strategy is not rigid: it is evidence-based. If new imaging or biopsy data emerge, the strategy must adapt accordingly.