Treatment Overview
Salvage robotic prostatectomy is a specialized minimally invasive procedure performed on patients with recurrent prostate cancer after previous treatments such as radiation therapy or focal therapy. The surgery involves removing the remaining prostate tissue while minimizing damage to surrounding structures. Using robotic assistance, surgeons achieve high precision to reduce complications, preserve urinary and sexual function when possible, and maximize cancer control.
Korea is recognized for its expertise in complex urologic surgeries, offering advanced robotic technology, experienced surgeons, and comprehensive postoperative care for international patients seeking salvage procedures.
Purpose & Benefits
The primary purpose of salvage robotic prostatectomy is to treat recurrent prostate cancer following prior therapies.
Key benefits include:
• Minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery for reduced trauma
• Precise removal of recurrent cancerous tissue
• Preservation of urinary continence and sexual function when feasible
• Reduced blood loss compared to traditional open salvage surgery
• Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
• Improved oncological outcomes in recurrent disease
• Enhanced quality of life after successful salvage surgery
Korean hospitals focus on combining oncological safety with functional preservation to optimize patient outcomes.
Ideal Candidates
Salvage robotic prostatectomy is suitable for patients experiencing localized recurrence of prostate cancer after prior treatments.
Ideal candidates include:
• Men with confirmed local recurrence via PSA rise or imaging
• Patients previously treated with radiation, HIFU, or focal therapy
• Individuals in good overall health suitable for anesthesia
• Patients desiring minimally invasive surgery with expert robotic care
• Men aiming to preserve urinary and sexual function where possible
Korean specialists conduct detailed imaging, biopsy, and functional assessments to determine surgical eligibility.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although generally safe, salvage robotic prostatectomy carries higher risks due to prior treatments:
• Infection at the surgical site
• Increased bleeding or hematoma due to tissue fibrosis
• Urinary leakage or delayed continence
• Erectile dysfunction if nerve preservation is compromised
• Scar tissue formation and urethral strictures
• Rare anesthesia-related complications
Korean hospitals mitigate these risks through robotic precision, careful surgical planning, and structured postoperative care.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korea employs advanced techniques and technology for salvage robotic prostatectomy:
• Robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery with 3D high-definition visualization
• Nerve-sparing techniques when feasible to preserve erectile function
• Advanced dissection tools to navigate fibrotic tissue from previous treatments
• Micro-incisions to minimize tissue trauma
• Intraoperative imaging and navigation for precise tumor removal
• Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols for faster functional rehabilitation
These technologies ensure high precision, safe tumor removal, and functional preservation despite prior tissue changes.
Treatment Process in Korea
The salvage robotic prostatectomy process in Korea is carefully structured for complex cases:
- Pre-Arrival Consultation
Patients submit medical history, prior treatment details, PSA levels, imaging, and biopsy reports. - In-Person Evaluation
Urologists assess recurrence location, tissue condition, and overall health to confirm eligibility. - Surgical Planning
Surgeons create a personalized plan including nerve-sparing strategy, robotic setup, and navigation through fibrotic tissue. - Surgery
The procedure typically lasts 3–6 hours under general anesthesia using robotic-assisted minimally invasive techniques. - Hospital Recovery
Patients usually stay 2–4 days for monitoring, pain management, and early mobilization. - Postoperative Care
Catheter removal occurs 7–10 days after surgery. Follow-up visits monitor urinary continence, PSA levels, and sexual function. - Long-Term Follow-Up
Regular visits assess cancer control, functional recovery, and overall health.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery from salvage robotic prostatectomy is carefully managed due to the complexity of prior treatments:
• Mild to moderate pain or swelling for several days
• Early ambulation within 24 hours
• Gradual return to daily activities within 2–4 weeks
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks
• Pelvic floor exercises to improve urinary continence
• Long-term PSA and functional monitoring
Korean hospitals provide structured after-care programs, patient education, and telemedicine support for international patients.
Results & Longevity
Salvage robotic prostatectomy provides effective functional and oncological outcomes in carefully selected patients:
• Removal of recurrent prostate cancer
• Preservation of urinary continence and sexual function when feasible
• Shorter hospital stay compared to open salvage surgery
• Early return to daily life and improved quality of life
• Long-term PSA monitoring ensures early detection of further recurrence
Korea’s expertise in robotic urologic surgery ensures safe, precise, and durable results even in complex salvage cases.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a leading destination for salvage robotic prostatectomy due to:
• Highly experienced robotic urologic surgeons skilled in complex salvage procedures
• Internationally accredited hospitals with advanced robotic systems
• Minimally invasive approach to reduce complications and recovery time
• Efficient medical tourism services including interpreters and travel coordination
• Short waiting times and streamlined surgical scheduling
• Competitive costs compared to Western countries
• Comprehensive postoperative care and rehabilitation programs
These factors make Korea an ideal choice for patients seeking expert salvage prostate cancer surgery with optimal outcomes.
Cost Range
The cost of salvage robotic prostatectomy in Korea typically ranges from USD 20,000 – 45,000, depending on:
• Hospital category (general vs. premium international center)
• Complexity of surgery and prior treatments
• Preoperative diagnostics and imaging
• Length of hospital stay and follow-up care
Many hospitals offer all-inclusive packages covering surgery, diagnostics, hospitalization, and postoperative care for international patients.
Popular Clinics in Korea
Top hospitals offering salvage robotic prostatectomy in Korea include:
• Samsung Medical Center
• Asan Medical Center
• Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)
• Severance Hospital (Yonsei University Health System)
• Korea University Anam Hospital
• W Hospital Urology Center
• BnU Urology Clinic
• Chung-Ang University Hospital
These institutions provide advanced robotic surgery, expert surgeons, and comprehensive international patient support.
