Da Vinci Prostatectomy and PSA

Da Vinci prostatectomy and PSA  – PSA test results are monitored before the minimally invasive prostatectomy and after the da Vinci surgery. In many cases men have been alerted to their prostate cancer by the results from a prostate screening which includes a review of their medical history, a blood test which is called a PSA test (prostate specific antigen) and a digital rectal exam. There has been controversy over the accuracy of prostate screening results which then may lead to a follow up procedure called a prostate biopsy. Generally when a high PSA, a prostate nodule, and a family history of prostate cancer are found from the prostate screening either another prostate screening is scheduled to confirm the prior results or a prostate biopsy is scheduled to confirm or not confirm the presence of prostate cancer cells in the prostate. Once the biopsy results come back and they show that indeed prostate cancer cells are present, the results will show how much cancer there is, and where it is located in the prostate and sometimes in the seminal vesicles. The rigorous analysis of determining what the patients’ options and plan of care are then presented and the decisions are finalized by the patient and the urologist and any other doctors that may be involved with other medical problems that the patient may have.

Da Vinci prostatectomy and PSA – PSA monitoring will resume after the prostate removal surgery.  The PSA test will be periodically taken after the radical prostatectomy along with monitoring other symptoms of cancer. It is common for blood in urine or microscopic blood in urine (microhematuria) to be found after the prostate surgery. As the surgical site heals the hematuria will subside and bladder function will become normal.

Da Vinci prostatectomy and PSA - PSA testing initially helps to find the prostate cancer, and after the robotic prostatectomy PSA testing maintains vigilance for recurring cancer. Dr Bianco will determine if several treatment modalities are needed for the optimal goals of removing the prostate cancer and maintaining both healthy bladder function and erectile function.

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