Treatment Overview
Salvage Prostatectomy is a specialized surgical procedure performed to remove the prostate gland in men whose prostate cancer has recurred after initial treatments, such as radiation therapy or focal therapy. It is considered a complex procedure due to tissue changes from previous treatments. In Korea, high-volume hospitals offer advanced techniques, including robotic-assisted or open salvage prostatectomy, performed by experienced urologists to ensure optimal cancer control and minimize complications.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of Salvage Prostatectomy is to eliminate recurrent cancer and improve long-term survival. Key benefits include:
- Effective treatment of recurrent prostate cancer after failed primary therapy.
- Potential cure for localized recurrence when other treatments are no longer effective.
- Precise surgical approach with robotic assistance to reduce complications.
- Preservation of urinary and sexual function where feasible, using nerve-sparing techniques.
- Integration with advanced imaging to accurately locate recurrent tumor tissue.
Ideal Candidates
Salvage Prostatectomy is suitable for:
- Men with localized recurrence of prostate cancer after radiation, cryotherapy, or focal therapy.
- Patients in good general health who can tolerate complex surgery.
- Individuals whose cancer is confined to the prostate or immediate surrounding tissues.
- Patients seeking curative treatment when other options are limited or ineffective.
Possible Risks & Complications
Salvage Prostatectomy is more challenging than primary prostatectomy and carries higher risk of complications, including:
- Urinary incontinence, which may be long-term in some cases.
- Erectile dysfunction due to nerve damage or prior treatment effects.
- Bleeding or infection at the surgical site.
- Injury to nearby organs such as bladder or rectum.
- Lymphocele formation if lymph nodes are removed.
- Standard anesthesia-related risks.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals performing Salvage Prostatectomy use state-of-the-art techniques:
- Robotic-assisted salvage prostatectomy: Enhanced precision and 3D visualization for safer dissection of fibrotic tissue.
- Open salvage prostatectomy: Applied in complex cases where minimally invasive surgery is not feasible.
- Nerve-sparing strategies: Attempted when prior treatment allows, to preserve sexual function.
- Advanced imaging: Preoperative MRI and intraoperative guidance for accurate tumor localization.
Treatment Process in Korea
The typical process for Salvage Prostatectomy in Korea includes:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: PSA tests, imaging studies (MRI, CT, bone scans), and review of previous treatment history.
- Preoperative Preparation: Health optimization, counseling on risks, and planning surgical approach.
- Surgical Procedure: Performed under general anesthesia, lasting 3–5 hours depending on complexity.
- Postoperative Monitoring: Hospital stay of 3–7 days with monitoring for bleeding, urinary function, and infection.
- Follow-up Visits: PSA testing, imaging, and evaluation of urinary continence and sexual function.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery after Salvage Prostatectomy is more intensive compared to primary prostatectomy:
- Hospital Stay: Typically 3–7 days depending on surgical complexity.
- Catheter Management: Urinary catheter usually removed 1–2 weeks post-surgery.
- Pain Management: Medications for postoperative discomfort and inflammation.
- Physical Activity: Light activity encouraged after 2–3 weeks; full recovery may take 6–12 weeks.
- Long-Term Care: Pelvic floor exercises, urinary rehabilitation, sexual function support, and regular PSA monitoring.
Results & Longevity
Salvage Prostatectomy offers potential curative outcomes for recurrent prostate cancer:
- Cancer Control: Effective in localized recurrence, with improved long-term survival rates in carefully selected patients.
- Functional Outcomes: Urinary continence recovery may take longer; sexual function preservation depends on nerve-sparing feasibility.
- Durability: Long-term cancer control is achievable, especially in high-volume Korean centers with experienced surgeons.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a leading destination for Salvage Prostatectomy due to:
- Expert Surgeons: Urologists with extensive experience in complex prostate surgeries.
- Advanced Surgical Facilities: Robotic and open surgery capabilities with high precision.
- Comprehensive Care: Integration of preoperative evaluation, surgery, and postoperative rehabilitation.
- Affordable Costs: High-quality, cost-effective treatment for international patients.
- Medical Tourism Support: English-speaking coordinators, travel assistance, and patient-centered care.
Cost Range
The cost of Salvage Prostatectomy in Korea typically ranges from $15,000 to $25,000, depending on hospital, surgical method, prior treatment complexity, and additional services like accommodation and postoperative care.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals offering Salvage Prostatectomy for international patients include:
- Samsung Medical Center, Seoul – Advanced robotic salvage surgery programs.
- Asan Medical Center, Seoul – Specialized in high-risk and recurrent prostate cancer surgeries.
- Severance Hospital, Seoul – Expertise in complex urology and minimally invasive salvage procedures.
- Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital – Comprehensive cancer care with robotic surgery support.
- CHA Bundang Medical Center – Renowned for international patient services and surgical expertise.
