Overview of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a major health problem in most of the civilized countries. It mainly affects older men. Four out of five cases are diagnosed in men older than 65, and less than 1% in men under the age of 50. Although rare, prostate cancer can also be found in 30-40 years old patients.

If the tumour is confined to the prostate gland, an experienced surgeon can remove the entire prostate. The procedure is known as radical prostatectomy. During this procedure, prostate and seminal vesicles are removed completely.

Surgeons have several options for the prostate cancer surgery:

Retropubic prostatectomy. The surgeon makes an incision in the abdominal wall in order to reach the prostate. During surgery, the surgeon may also remove the lymph nodes located within this area. This precaution can help prevent the disease to spread.
Perineal prostatectomy. The surgeon makes an incision in the perineum. The perineum is the area located between the scrotum and the anus. For this intervention an abdominal incision for removing lymph nodes is necessary.
Laparoscopic prostatectomy. The surgeon uses instruments that are inserted through several small incisions. This option is generally associated with fewer complications and a faster recovery. Though, it is not suitable for all tumour types.
Transurethral resection of the prostate. This type of surgery is used for the benign prostate adenoma. The surgeon inserts a small surgical instrument through the urethra. Then removes the prostate tissue that causes problems such as difficult or painful micturition. The prostate is not removed entirely. The surgery is sometimes used to relieve symptoms of prostate cancer in elderly patients who may not suitable candidates for radical prostatectomy.