What Is a Suprapubic Prostatectomy?
A suprapubic prostatectomy is an open surgical procedure performed to excise all or part of the prostate gland. This surgery is indicated in around two to three percent of cases where a prostatectomy is necessary. It is invasive and the patient may need to spend some time in the hospital after the procedure to recover. A surgeon who specializes in urology and prostate care is usually in charge of the procedure and it takes place in a hospital operating room. Prostatectomies are used to remove the prostate gland if there is a concern about cancer or it is grossly enlarged. Men with enlarged prostates can have difficulty urinating and may experience symptoms like painful urination, urge to urinate but an inability to produce any urine, and frequent urination. A physical examination and medical imaging study may reveal enlargement of the prostate, and the surgeon may recommend a suprapubic prostatectomy as the best procedure for the patient.