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Simple Prostatectomy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Simple Prostatectomy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Surgery Overview
Simple prostatectomy is the surgical removal of the prostate. This surgery removes much of the prostate, but it may or may not remove all of the prostate. It may be done as an open surgery, a laparoscopic surgery, or as a laparoscopic surgery with robotic assistance.
Simple prostatectomy is not done very often for benign enlargement of the prostate. It may be recommended if:
- You have a very large prostate.
- You have bladder diverticula (pouches in the wall of the bladder) or bladder stones.
- Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is not possible for another reason.
What To Expect
What To Expect
Simple prostatectomy may require spending one or more days in the hospital. You may go home with a urinary catheter in place. Your doctor will give you instructions about how to care for your catheter at home.
Learn more
- Care for an Indwelling Urinary Catheter
Why It Is Done
Why It Is Done
Simple prostatectomy usually is used for men who want surgery to treat their benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms and who have very enlarged prostates.
Learn more
- Enlarged Prostate: Should I Have Surgery?
How Well It Works
How Well It Works
Simple prostatectomy almost always improves symptoms.
Risks
Risks
The risks of simple prostatectomy include:
- The possible need for a blood transfusion.
- Ejaculation of semen into the bladder instead of out through the penis (retrograde ejaculation).
- An inability to have sexual intercourse because of erection problems.
- A strong urge to urinate, which can also cause leaking of urine. This usually gets better within weeks or months.
- Complete or partial inability to hold back urine (incontinence).
Current as of: June 16, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:E. Gregory Thompson MD - Internal Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & J. Curtis Nickel MD, FRCSC - Urology
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.
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