Treatment Overview
Radical Prostatectomy with Urinary Reconstruction is an advanced surgical procedure for men with localized or locally advanced prostate cancer who require removal of the prostate gland along with reconstruction of the urinary tract. This procedure is typically performed when the standard prostatectomy may compromise urinary function, or in cases requiring bladder neck reconstruction or urethral realignment. In Korea, hospitals offer this procedure using open, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted techniques performed by highly skilled urologists to ensure both cancer control and restoration of urinary function.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of this surgery is to remove cancerous tissue while maintaining or restoring urinary function. Key benefits include:
- Complete cancer removal for localized or locally advanced prostate cancer.
- Restoration of urinary function through advanced reconstruction techniques.
- Improved quality of life by reducing the risk of long-term incontinence.
- Nerve-sparing approaches where feasible to preserve erectile function.
- High precision surgery with robotic or laparoscopic options for minimal trauma.
Ideal Candidates
This procedure is suitable for:
- Men with localized or locally advanced prostate cancer at risk of urinary complications.
- Patients requiring bladder neck or urethral reconstruction after prostate removal.
- Individuals in good general health capable of undergoing major surgery.
- Patients who prioritize both cancer control and urinary function preservation.
Possible Risks & Complications
As a complex procedure, potential risks include:
- Urinary incontinence, temporary or, in rare cases, permanent.
- Erectile dysfunction depending on nerve-sparing feasibility.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Injury to adjacent organs such as bladder or rectum.
- Stricture or narrowing of the reconstructed urinary tract.
- Standard anesthesia-related risks.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals performing this procedure employ advanced surgical methods:
- Robotic-assisted surgery: Offers 3D visualization and precise tissue manipulation for complex reconstruction.
- Laparoscopic approach: Minimally invasive option for selected patients with skilled surgeons.
- Open approach: Applied in complex cases requiring extensive reconstruction.
- Nerve-sparing techniques: Attempted to preserve erectile function where possible.
- Advanced urinary reconstruction techniques: Include bladder neck reconstruction, urethral realignment, and tension-free anastomosis.
Treatment Process in Korea
The typical process includes:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: PSA testing, imaging, biopsy review, and overall health assessment.
- Preoperative Planning: Surgical approach selection and counseling on risks and recovery expectations.
- Surgical Procedure: Performed under general anesthesia, usually lasting 3–6 hours depending on complexity.
- Postoperative Monitoring: Hospital stay of 3–7 days with observation for bleeding, urinary function, and infection.
- Follow-up Visits: PSA testing, evaluation of urinary continence, and assessment of sexual function recovery.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after Radical Prostatectomy with Urinary Reconstruction is comprehensive:
- Hospital Stay: Typically 3–7 days depending on surgical complexity.
- Catheter Management: Urinary catheter typically remains in place 1–3 weeks post-surgery.
- Pain Management: Oral or IV medications to control post-op discomfort.
- Physical Activity: Light activity after 2–3 weeks; full activity resumed in 6–8 weeks.
- Long-Term Care: Pelvic floor exercises, urinary rehabilitation, and routine PSA monitoring for cancer surveillance.
Results & Longevity
This procedure provides effective outcomes in both cancer control and urinary function restoration:
- Cancer Control: High success rates for localized and locally advanced prostate cancer.
- Functional Outcomes: Most patients regain urinary continence within months; nerve-sparing may preserve erectile function.
- Durability: Long-term disease-free survival and functional outcomes are excellent in high-volume Korean centers.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a preferred destination for this procedure due to:
- Experienced Surgeons: Urologists skilled in complex prostatectomy and urinary reconstruction.
- Advanced Facilities: Robotic, laparoscopic, and open surgical platforms for precise reconstruction.
- Comprehensive Care: Integration of evaluation, surgery, and postoperative rehabilitation.
- Cost-Effective High-Quality Treatment: Competitive pricing for international patients.
- Medical Tourism Support: English-speaking coordinators, travel arrangements, and personalized patient care.
Cost Range
The cost of Radical Prostatectomy with Urinary Reconstruction in Korea typically ranges from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on hospital, surgical complexity, and additional services such as accommodation and postoperative care.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals offering this procedure for international patients include:
- Samsung Medical Center, Seoul – Expert in robotic and open prostatectomy with urinary reconstruction.
- Asan Medical Center, Seoul – High-volume center for advanced prostate cancer surgeries.
- Severance Hospital, Seoul – Specialized in complex urological and reconstructive procedures.
- Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital – Comprehensive care for prostate cancer and functional preservation.
- CHA Bundang Medical Center – Renowned for international patient services and surgical expertise.
