Robotic Prostatectomy in Melbourne
Robotic prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat prostate cancer. Mr Philip Dundee routinely performs the Retzius-sparing approach, which provides equivalent cancer control to conventional robotic prostatectomy while offering improved early continence.
In a published, prospectively recorded series, 85% of Mr Dundee’s patients were continent and pad-free within 3 months of surgery.
to discuss your diagnosis and treatment options.
Experience in Robotic Prostate Surgery
- Over 15 years experience as a consultant urologist
- Performs over 150 robotic procedures annually
- More than 1,800 robotic and laparoscopic procedures performed
- Director, Robotic Surgery Fellowship – Royal Melbourne Hospital
- Clinical Director – The Australian Prostate Centre
Extensive experience in robotic prostatectomy, including the Retzius-sparing approach.
What is Retzius-sparing radical prostatectomy?
Retzius-sparing radical prostatectomy is a minimally invasive robotic approach to removing the prostate. Unlike the conventional robotic technique, it preserves the structures at the front of the bladder and prostate, resulting in less disruption of normal pelvic anatomy.
Are outcomes with Retzius-sparing radical prostatectomy different from the conventional robotic approach?
Retzius-sparing radical prostatectomy offers all of the advantages of minimally invasive robotic surgery, including reduced blood loss, less post-operative pain and earlier return to normal activities when compared with open surgery. Cancer control is equivalent to conventional robotic prostatectomy. However, patients undergoing the Retzius-sparing approach generally achieve earlier recovery of urinary continence, with 85% of patients free of continence pads within 3 months of surgery.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to normal daily activities within a few weeks, although recovery varies.
Outcomes after Retzius-sparing radical prostatectomy
In a published, prospectively recorded series of 150 consecutive patients undergoing Retzius-sparing robotic prostatectomy, 66% of Mr Dundee’s patients were continent and pad-free at 1 week, 74% at 1 month and 85% at 3 months following surgery.
By 3 months, 97% of Mr Dundee’s patients required either no pads or a single pad per day.
What to consider
As with any surgery, robotic prostatectomy carries risks.
Common considerations include:
- Urinary incontinence
- Erectile dysfunction
- Bleeding or infection
- Anaesthetic risks
These risks vary depending on:
- Patient factors
- Cancer characteristics
- Surgical technique
A detailed discussion is an important part of pre-operative planning.
Recovery After Surgery
Immediately after surgery:
- Hospital stay typically 1–2 days
- Suprapubic catheter for approximately 1 week
Early recovery
- Return to light activities within 1–2 days
- Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise avoided for 6 weeks
- Approximately 70–80% of Mr Dundee’s patients are continent within the first month after catheter removal
Longer-term recovery
- Continued improvement in urinary and sexual function
- 95% of Mr Dundee’s patients are free of continence pads by 6 months
- Sexual function recovery may continue for up to 2 years
- Ongoing PSA monitoring
Effectiveness of surgery
Robotic prostatectomy aims to:
- Remove all localised cancer
- Provide accurate pathological staging
- Enable additional treatment if required
Long-term outcomes depend on cancer stage, grade, and patient factors.
How long will it take to regain continence?
Is robotic prostatectomy safe?
Yes. It is a well-established procedure performed widely for prostate cancer.
How long does the operation take?
Surgery can take up to two hours, depending on complexity.
Will I need further treatment after surgery?
Some patients may require additional treatment depending on pathology results.
When can I return to work?
Many patients return to work within a few weeks, depending on recovery and job demands. Patients performing manual work may require up to 6 weeks before returning to full duties.
Book a consultation
If you are considering surgery for prostate cancer, a consultation can help determine whether robotic prostatectomy is the right option for you.
