What happens later at home?

The man is usually sent home 2 to 4 days after surgery with the urinary catheter in place. Instructions are given to the man and his family about care of the catheter. This catheter is removed 1 to 3 weeks after the procedure. Dressings are kept on the wounds until they have dried up completely.

Regular PSA blood tests will be done to monitor the cancer. The PSA level should fall to near zero levels after the prostatectomy.

What are the potential complications after the procedure?

Acute complications include bleeding, infection, damage to the rectum, and allergic reaction to anesthesia.

The primary long-term complications are erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. The incidence of erectile dysfunction varies widely. Surgeons are now using techniques to spare the nerves that control erectile functioning. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.