Frequently Asked Questions > Prostate Surgery > What is a da Vinci prostatectomy?
Dr. Mani Menon has answered some of the most common questions about prostatectomy and robot-assisted surgery. Click on any of the questions here or use the search tool below to get the answers you're after.
What Is a da Vinci Prostatectomy?
A da Vinci™ prostatectomy is a laparoscopic surgery in which the surgeon uses a special robot to remove the prostate cancer. Dr. Mani Menon pioneered the use of da Vinci robotic technology for this purpose.
The da Vinci robot is a three-dimensional computer vision system attached to robotic arms that can rotate 360 degrees. These arms hold special surgical instruments that are inserted into the abdomen through tiny incisions. A laparoscope—a long, thin, lighted telescope—is inserted through one incision and connected to a computer monitor. This gives Dr. Menon an enhanced three-dimensional view inside the body and allows him greater precision to preserve the delicate nerves and muscles surrounding the prostate.
Because the incisions are so small, only a few stitches are required. As a result there is minimal scarring and a more rapid recovery rate. Most patients have very little pain after the robotic procedure and can walk the evening of surgery. They usually go home within 24 hours and return to normal activity within two weeks.
Last updated on September 3, 2010 by Dr. Mani Menon