How is Radical Prostatectomy Performed?
The oldest technique for radical prostatectomy is called radical perineal prostatectomy. This operation removes the prostate through a small incision between the scrotum and the anus. This technique has a number of drawbacks, including very limited exposure of the prostate. Very few urologists still perform radical perineal prostatectomy. The modern standard approach to radical prostatectomy is called radical retropubic prostatectomy. It is performed through an midline incision from the belly button to the top of the pubic bone. The urologist can examine or remove pelvic lymph nodes, and has excellent exposure of the bladder, prostate, urethra, and pelvic nerves. The prostate is located below the bladder, and the urethra passes through the middle of the prostate.
