Putting It All Together

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to prostate removal.

• Prostatectomy is the surgical removal of the prostate gland.

• Prostatectomy is performed to treat for prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) when the prostate gland is greatly enlarged, causing urinary difficulties and other problems.

• Prostatectomy is performed to treat prostate cancer when the cancer cells have not yet spread beyond the prostate gland.

• Prostatectomy usually eliminates the ability to ejaculate normally but does not usually impair the ability to have an orgasm.

• The two major complications of prostate removal are possible long-term incontinence and impotence (inability to achieve or maintain an erection).

• Percutaneous prostate cryoablation is a promising, newer, still-experimental technique that freezes cancerous tissues and can be used for men with advanced stages of prostate cancer.