What is a nerve-sparing procedure?
Neurovascular bundles are bundles of nerves, which run along each side of the prostate and aid in achieving an erection. On or both of these bundles of nerves may be spared during LRP, thereby preserving the patients sexual function. Younger patients with a history of strong erections and frequent sexual activity benefit from a nerve-sparing procedure. Older men or men with limited erections see less benefit from such a procedure, and as such preservation of these bundles is frequently not recommended. Because of the proximity of these bundles to the prostate, is it possible that a nerve sparing procedure may risk leaving cancer behind. You should discuss the risks and benefits of a nerve sparing procedure with Dr. Gholami when choosing an ideal therapy.
