Radical Prostatectomy is a procedure to remove the entire prostate gland that contains a localized cancer.  During the surgery, seminal vesicles and possibly some lymph nodes may be removed as well. 

Day of Surgery- Prior to surgery, patients may be admitted to the hospital at least one day prior to the surgery, or at least two (2) hours before the planned surgical time.  Patients will be taken to a pre-surgical area where nurses and other hospital personnel will attach various monitoring devices to the body and insert an intravenous line for anesthesia purposes.  The actual surgical procedure may take from two (2) to four (4) hours.  After the surgery is complete, patients will be in the recovery room, and will experience some grogginess.  The nurses in the recovery room may administer pain medication as necessary. 

Foley Catheter: the drainage tube goes through the opening of the penis into the bladder.  The purpose of the foley catheter is to empty the bladder while healing and recovering from the surgery.  The catheter is usually removed one to three weeks after surgery.

Suction Drains: tubes that come from the lower abdomen and are attached to suction bulbs.  They collect blood and fluids from the operative site.  The suctions drains will probably be taken out prior to discharge home from the hospital.

Intravenous Line: one or more tubes going into veins to provide the body with liquids and nutrients after surgery. 

Hospital Stay – Patients can expect to remain in the hospital from 3 to 4 days, depending upon their recovery from surgery.  During the hospital stay, patients may be provided with pain medication as needed. Pain relief may be given by injections or by oral medications.  The physician will make adjustments to the medication to alleviate discomfort.  The physician may recommend patients get out of bed within the same day or the day after surgery.  Dizziness or weak feelings may occur and are normal after surgery.  The amount of time in and out of bed will gradually increase during the hospital stay.  Bowels may not begin to work as normal immediately after surgery, and this is normal.  Do not be concerned if a bowel movement does not occur for several days.  The physician may prescribe a stool softener or laxative. Constipation may occur until the diet and level of activity get back to normal.

Discharge Instructions – After 3 to 4 days, patients will be discharged to go home for further recovery.  All tubes will have been removed, with the exception of the foley catheter.  Nurses will provide instructions for care of the catheter and emptying the foley bag. 

1) Avoid strenuous activities for at least 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.  It is recommended that patients walk and be out of bed after returning home.

2) Staples or skin steri-strips maybe removed one week after surgery.  The operative site should be kept dry and clean while healing.

3) If blood is noticed in the foley catheter bag, do not become alarmed.  Blood in the urine is a normal process during the initial recovery period after surgery.  As the days pass after surgery, the urine becomes clearer. Patients should drink ample amounts of fluid to flush out the bladder and the system.

After Surgery Instructions

- Patients should take showers, not tub baths until the catheter is removed.

- Driving an automobile should be avoided until the catheter has been removed.

- Walk on relatively flat surfaces upon initial discharge from the hospital.

- Avoid lots of stair climbing for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery.

- Be aware small amounts of leakage around the catheter is normal, large amounts of drainage is unusual and should be reported to the physician.

Signs and Symptoms of Infection

- Foul smelling or cloudy urine.
- Temperature greater than 101.5 degrees F or chills.
- Redness, swelling, or drainage to incision.
- Increased blood to urine or excessive blood clots.

** See “Taking Care of the Catheter” Sheet