Medicover
Radical prostatectomy assisted by the da Vinci robot is the most modern and technologically advanced method of treating prostate cancer. It is distinguished by its precision (10x image magnification, full HD and 5 mm long tools that move in any direction according to the operator's intention), which helps to completely remove the tumour.
Prostate cancer
Approximately 10 males in Poland die from prostate cancer each day. The fear of loss of sexual function and other symptoms that impact the quality of life often stop men not only from coming in for diagnostic tests, but also from seeking treatment for prostate cancer. Meanwhile, the detection of prostate cancer when it involves only the prostate gland and the application of appropriate treatment gives great chances for a complete cure. It also opens up the possibility of highly effective yet less invasive treatments for prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is the most common malignant cancer in men, and the incidence increases with age. It is estimated that after the age of 75, between 80% and 90% of men are affected by this disease, which develops insidiously and is often asymptomatic, which is why diagnostic evaluation is so important. In the diagnostic evaluation of prostate cancer, a basic diagnostic 'triad' can be mentioned:
- PSA level determination - a simple blood test which determines the serum PSA level, which, when exceeding 4 ng/l, may suggest the presence of cancer
- magnetic resonance imaging of the prostate - a non-invasive imaging study
- if there are indications for biopsy, this can be done in a modern way - fusion biopsy (based on magnetic resonance images), targeted and transrectal biopsy - minimising the risk of infection.
- An auxiliary and secondary role is played by digital rectal examination.
Procedures assisted by da Vinci robot
Radical prostatectomy assisted by the da Vinci robot allows the procedure to be performed sparingly in most cases, which is a prerequisite for good urinary continence and return of erections after surgery.
The procedure involves making several approx. 1.5 cm holes in the skin of the abdomen, through which four robotic arms are inserted into the patient's body. A stereoscopic camera is placed on one of the robotic arms, allowing a three-dimensional image of the surgical field to be obtained. Other arms are equipped with miniaturised surgical instruments, allowing precise handling of individual tissue fibres. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
At the Medicover Hospital we operate on patients at all stages of the disease (including stage T3/T4, N1). We perform SMART (Salwa Modified Advanced Robotic Technique) Prostatectomy, a proprietary modification of the da Vinci robotic procedure in which every element of the operation has been improved.
These modifications are intended to improve the effects of the operation in aspects:
- removal of the tumour,
- better urinary continence,
- preserving the structures responsible for erection,
- reducing the risk of complications.
We also specialise in salvage prostatectomy (salvage) for recurrence after tele- or brachytherapy or Nano-Knife.
At Medicover Hospital we have the state-of-the-art da Vinci X robot equipped with the FireFly laser which helps detect lymph node metastases or assess blood supply to tissue margins in reconstructive procedures. EndoWrist technology allows for precise tool movement in 7 degrees of freedom.
