Treatment Overview
Retropubic Radical Prostatectomy (RRP) is a surgical procedure to remove the prostate gland through an incision in the lower abdomen, just above the pubic bone. This traditional open surgery approach allows direct access to the prostate and surrounding tissues, including pelvic lymph nodes if needed. In Korea, hospitals perform RRP with advanced surgical techniques and experienced urologists, ensuring effective cancer removal and patient safety.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of RRP is to remove cancerous prostate tissue while providing an option for simultaneous pelvic lymph node dissection when required. Benefits include:
- Effective cancer removal in localized and some locally advanced prostate cancers.
- Direct access to pelvic lymph nodes for accurate staging and removal.
- Ability to perform nerve-sparing techniques to preserve sexual function when feasible.
- High success rates in long-term cancer control.
- Reliable approach for patients not suitable for minimally invasive surgery.
Ideal Candidates
RRP is suitable for:
- Men with localized or locally advanced prostate cancer.
- Patients who are not candidates for laparoscopic or robotic procedures.
- Individuals requiring lymph node removal or complex surgical access.
- Patients prioritizing direct surgical access and proven long-term cancer control.
Possible Risks & Complications
As a traditional open surgical procedure, RRP carries certain risks:
- Urinary incontinence, which may be temporary or long-term.
- Erectile dysfunction depending on nerve-sparing feasibility.
- Bleeding, occasionally requiring transfusion.
- Infection at the surgical site.
- Injury to adjacent organs, such as bladder or rectum.
- Standard anesthesia-related risks.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals performing RRP utilize modern surgical techniques to enhance safety and outcomes:
- Precision surgical instruments for careful dissection of the prostate and surrounding tissue.
- Nerve-sparing techniques to preserve sexual function when possible.
- Advanced hemostatic tools to reduce blood loss.
- Intraoperative imaging and visualization to ensure complete tumor removal and accurate lymph node dissection.
Treatment Process in Korea
The typical process for RRP in Korea includes:
- Initial Consultation & Assessment: PSA testing, MRI, biopsy review, and overall health evaluation.
- Preoperative Preparation: Counseling, pre-op tests, and optimization of general health.
- Surgical Procedure: Performed under general anesthesia, usually lasting 2–5 hours depending on complexity.
- Postoperative Monitoring: Hospital stay of 3–5 days with careful observation for bleeding, infection, and urinary function.
- Follow-up Visits: PSA monitoring, assessment of urinary continence, and evaluation of sexual function recovery.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after RRP in Korea focuses on rehabilitation and monitoring:
- Hospital Stay: Typically 3–5 days.
- Catheter Management: Urinary catheter usually removed 1–2 weeks after surgery.
- Pain Management: Oral or IV medications for post-op discomfort.
- Physical Activity: Light activity after 2–3 weeks; full activity resumed in 6–8 weeks.
- Long-Term Care: Pelvic floor exercises, sexual rehabilitation, and routine PSA monitoring to detect recurrence early.
Results & Longevity
RRP offers effective cancer control and durable outcomes:
- Cancer Control: High success rate in localized and selected locally advanced prostate cancer.
- Functional Outcomes: Most patients regain urinary continence within months; nerve-sparing improves sexual function preservation.
- Durability: Proven long-term survival and disease-free outcomes in high-volume Korean centers.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a preferred destination for RRP due to:
- Experienced Surgeons: Urologists with extensive expertise in open radical prostatectomy.
- Advanced Hospitals: Facilities equipped for complex prostate surgeries with patient safety as priority.
- Comprehensive Care: Integration of preoperative assessment, surgery, and postoperative rehabilitation.
- Affordable Treatment: Competitive pricing for international patients without compromising quality.
- Medical Tourism Support: English-speaking coordinators, travel assistance, and seamless hospital navigation.
Cost Range
The cost of Retropubic Radical Prostatectomy in Korea typically ranges from $7,000 to $13,000, depending on hospital, surgeon expertise, and additional services such as accommodation and post-op care.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals offering RRP for international patients include:
- Samsung Medical Center, Seoul – High-volume center for complex prostate surgeries.
- Asan Medical Center, Seoul – Specialized in urology and pelvic lymph node surgery.
- Severance Hospital, Seoul – Expertise in open and minimally invasive prostate surgery.
- Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital – Advanced surgical facilities and patient support.
- CHA Bundang Medical Center – Renowned for quality care and international patient services.
