Consultant Urological Surgeon · GMC 7030583
Robotic vs Open Prostatectomy
A factual comparison of the two surgical approaches and how Mr Ashwin Sridhar helps you choose.
Robotic vs open: a factual comparison
| Robotic prostatectomy | Open prostatectomy | |
|---|---|---|
| Incisions | 5 to 6 keyhole incisions, each 0.5 to 1.5 cm | A single 10 to 15 cm incision, from below the navel to the pubic bone (retropubic) |
| Typical hospital stay | 1 to 2 nights, often home the day after surgery | 3 to 5 nights |
| Catheter | 7 to 10 days, using a suprapubic catheter | 10 to 14 days, sometimes with a cystogram (a dye test) first |
| Back to desk work | 2 to 4 weeks | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Full physical recovery | 6 to 8 weeks | 8 to 12 weeks |
| When it is used | Mr Sridhar's standard approach, including the Retzius-sparing technique | Reserved for a complex surgical history, e.g. extensive scarring or adhesions from previous abdominal surgery |
How Mr Sridhar helps you choose
The right approach depends on your individual case: your anatomy, the position and stage of the cancer, and your own priorities. Choosing should never feel rushed. If robotic surgery is right for you, we also talk through what recovery involves and the possible side-effects.
I take the time to explain the minute details of the biology and the technology in plain, everyday English, until you feel completely secure, and I will not move forward until you do.
Frequently asked questions
Which approach is right for me? +
The right approach depends on your individual case: your anatomy, the position and stage of the cancer, and your own priorities. Mr Sridhar talks all of this through with you honestly and in plain English before any decision is made, and helps you judge whether you are suitable. Book a consultation to discuss your options.
Is open surgery ever the better option? +
Yes, in some situations. Even in centres with advanced robotic capability, an open approach can be the safer choice when there is a complex surgical history, such as extensive scarring or adhesions from previous abdominal surgery. Mr Sridhar will tell you honestly if that applies to you.
Does the robot perform the surgery by itself? +
No. Mr Sridhar performs the operation himself, seated at a console and controlling the instruments in real time. The robotic system translates his hand movements into very precise, steady movements inside the body; it never acts on its own.
Book your assessment
Same-week consultations available with Mr Ashwin Sridhar.
Continue exploring
Am I suitable?Whether robotic surgery is an option for you.Fees & insuranceConsultation and surgery costs, and cover.Recovery & aftercareWhat to expect, week by week.Risks & side effectsIncluding nerve-sparing techniques.Common questionsAnswers to what patients ask most.Harley Street146 Harley Street, W1G.
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