Men are increasingly seeking robotic surgery for prostate cancer given its benefits such as faster recovery and a quicker return to normal activity, according to a leading surgeon.
Dr Hugo van der Merwe, from The Urology Hospital, Pretoria, says men with prostate cancer are conducting research and discovering that robotic surgery achieves improved cancer control, continence and potency.
Research notes that robotic-assisted prostatectomies (removal of cancerous prostate), are growing in popularity, while a recent study suggests robotic surgery results in less blood loss and improved urinary continence than other procedures. This follows an earlier scientific review showing the benefits of robotic surgery for prostatectomies.
At least one in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime, some requiring lifestyle and other interventions, while more aggressive cancers may require a prostatectomy.
The SA Cancer Association of SA (Cansa) recommends screening for prostate cancer from age 40, adding that early detection leads to a significantly high survival rate. A study by the University of KwaZulu-Natal notes that prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men across all SA population groups and also suggests that screening may help with early diagnosis.
Men wishing to find out more can consult The Urology Hospital, Pretoria, the only specialist institution of its kind in Africa, with over 20 urologists and the latest medical technology. It was also the first institution in Africa to acquire a robotic surgical system in 2013. Since then, the hospital has conducted over 2 000 robotic surgeries — about half of robotic procedures countrywide.
For more information, contact 012 423-4000 or SMS the word INFO and your e-mail address to 33000 (SMS charged at R1.50).
