Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy
A less-invasive type of radical prostatectomy in which the prostate gland is removed through small incisions using a laparoscope (a long, flexible lighted tube with a video camera attached) and special long, thin surgical tools. This type of procedure is commonly performed by a surgeon using a robot to precisely maneuver surgical tools (robotic laparoscopic radical prostatectomy).
Minimally invasive robotic surgery
The use of robotic systems to aid in surgical procedures. Robotic surgery helps to overcome limitations of minimally-invasive surgery, and broadens additional surgical capabilities.
A neobladder, usually made from a piece of a patients own small intestine, is an option for some patients who have had to undergo surgical removal of the bladder.
The use of high-energy radiation to kill or shrink cancer cells, tumors, and non-cancerous diseases.
Radical prostatectomy
An open-surgery procedure in which the entire prostate gland and some tissue around it are removed. This surgery involves an incision in either the abdomen or the area behind the scrotum. Doctors at Stanford perform nerve-sparing prostatectomies, which maintains sexual function.
The use of robotic aids in the precise surgical removal of tumors of the kidney.
Targeted therapies can target cancerous cells without affecting healthy tissue, unlike radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
Surgery to remove part of the prostate gland that surrounds the urethra by using a small tool that is placed inside the prostate through the urethra at the tip of the penis. There is no incision with this method. TURP is used as a palliative procedure (to relieve symptoms), not as a procedure to cure the cancer.