Robotic Radical Cystectomy

Robotic Radical Cystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used predominantly to treat bladder cancer. The procedure involves the use of robotic technology to remove the bladder and create a urinary diversion. This method is favoured for its precision, reduced pain and quicker recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. Dr Deanne has developed a particular expertise with this surgery.

Preparing For Surgery

Before undergoing surgery, a thorough assessment of the patient's health is crucial. This assessment includes a series of evaluations to obtain a full medical picture. Physical examinations gauge overall health and identify any conditions that could complicate surgery. Patients must partake in a series of blood tests to check for any underlying issues such as infections, anaemia, or blood clotting disorders. Imaging studies, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, offer Dr Deanne and the medical team detailed insights into the areas requiring surgical intervention. Moreover, consultations with Dr Deanne provide an opportunity for patients to learn about and implement necessary pre-operative lifestyle changes, such as adjusting diet, ceasing smoking, or managing medications.

The Surgical Procedure

The surgery is conducted with the patient under general anaesthetic, facilitating a painless operation. A series of minute incisions are carefully created within the abdominal region, through which advanced surgical tools and a high-definition camera are introduced. The state-of-the-art robotic system is employed, granting Dr Deanne an enhanced 3D perspective of the internal surgical environment alongside the dexterity to execute highly precise manoeuvres with the instruments. This innovative approach ensures minimal tissue disturbance and a reduction in patient recovery time.

Within the controlled operational field, the bladder is delicately delineated and separated from the proximal tissues to negate any unwarranted damage to surrounding structures. The bladder is then excised. Supplementary to this, based on a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's specific cancer stage and their overall health status, there may be a necessity to extirpate adjacent lymph nodes and potentially involved organs to stop the spread of malignancy. This thorough strategy is vital for maximising the potential for a successful patient outcome and minimising the likelihood of recurrence.

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

After surgery, patients typically spend some time in the hospital to recover. Post-operative care is crucial and includes pain management, stoma care if a urinary diversion is created (a urinary diversion is when the usual flow of urine has been rerouted), and physical therapy. Recovery time varies, but patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few weeks, although heavy lifting and strenuous activities are often restricted for longer.

Potential Repercussions and Lifestyle Changes

Removal of the bladder can significantly impact a patient's lifestyle. Patients may need to re-learn how they handle urinary functions as the surgery can involve creating new pathways for urine to exit the body. This can either be managed internally, by fashioning a new bladder from a section of the intestine -- known as a neobladder -- or externally, by directing urine through an opening in the abdomen into a urostomy bag.

Such changes in bodily function require comprehensive education for the patient, ensuring they are fully prepared to manage their health post-operation, be it through mastering the care of a urostomy bag or learning how to empty and maintain a neobladder.

Social and emotional support is also essential to help patients cope with lifestyle changes and body image concerns. Dr Deanne will put you in touch with any relevant counselling services, support groups, and therapy to facilitate the processing of these major life alterations and to foster resilience and a positive body image. The entirety of these interventions aims to equip you with the tools necessary to lead a full and satisfying life, embracing a new normal that, while different, is still enriched and engaging.

Further Treatment

Further treatment may be needed depending on the pathology report which may include chemotherapy or radiotherapy to ensure all cancerous cells are targeted, minimising the risk of recurrence. Ongoing follow-up care with Dr Deanne is vital for monitoring recovery and detecting any signs of cancer reappearance promptly.