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Surgical removal of the prostate, known as radical prostatectomy involves removal of the prostate and surrounding tissues, a portion of the urethra, and the seminal vesicles. An incision is made from the top of the pubic bone to below the umbilicus.
Occasionally, when there is concern that cancer has spread beyond the prostate, lymph nodes surrounding the prostate are removed and examined for cancer. If the lymph nodes are free of cancer the prostate is then removed.
As the surgeon is taking out the prostate he or she will try to save the nerves that surround the prostate, since these nerves are responsible for erections. Once the prostate is removed the urethra is reconnected directly to the bladder. |
