Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in India for Global Patients

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Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in India for Global Patients

  • Category

    Dermatology

  • Published By

    GetWellGo Team

  • Updated on

    27-Mar-2026

 

Prostate Cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, especially in older adults. A prostatectomy may be recommended in order to remove the prostate gland and any surrounding tissue that may have been affected by cancer. This can depend on the stage, grade, location and overall health of the patient. Robotic Assisted Radical Prostatectomy is a highly advanced minimally invasive procedure used to treat selected patients with localised or certain locally advanced prostate cancers.

During the procedure the surgeon will use robotic surgery to precisely remove the prostate gland and seminal vesicles. Lymph nodes may also be removed from the pelvic region if needed. In suitable patients, nerve sparing radical prostatectomy can be performed in order to protect the nerves that provide erections.

Patients across the globe can access robotic prostate cancer surgery in India. This depends on the cancer stage, PSA levels, biopsy results, imaging, age and patient preference.

What is Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy?

Radical Prostatectomy is the surgical removal of the prostate gland. The seminal vesicles (small glands behind the prostate) are also generally removed. The pelvic lymph nodes may also be removed depending on the cancer risk and stage.

Robotic-assisted surgery utilises a special robotic system. The surgeon controls robotic instruments to make precise movements within the pelvic cavity via small incisions in the abdomen.

How Does the Surgery Work?

The robotic system includes:

  • Multiple small incisions in the abdomen.

  • Robotic instruments and camera inserted.

  • Control of robotic arms via console.

  • Careful separation of the prostate and seminal vesicles from surrounding tissue.

  • Prostate removed via incisions.

  • The bladder is then rejoined to the urethra.

The robotic system translates the movement of the surgeon's hands into precise robotic instrument movements. However, the robot will not be undertaking the surgery.

Robot Assisted Radical Prostatectomy vs Traditional Prostatectomy

There are multiple ways that prostatectomy can be performed:

  • Open Radical Prostatectomy – Larger incision made in the lower abdomen.

  • Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy – Specialised instruments used via small incisions in the abdomen.

  • Robotic Radical Prostatectomy – Robotic instruments and 3D camera are used with surgeon controlling them via small incisions.

Robotic surgery can provide some benefits to the patient. Including smaller incisions, reduced blood loss in some patients, shorter length of stay and quicker initial recovery. However, the success of the cancer control and function depends on the surgeon experience, tumour features and patient factors.

Benefits of Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy:

  • Smaller incisions in the abdomen.

  • 3D enhanced vision.

  • Increased dexterity with instruments.

  • Reduced blood loss.

  • Less post-operative discomfort in some patients.

  • Shorter length of stay.

  • Early return to daily activities.

  • Nerve sparing possible.

  • Cancerous prostate tissue removed.

The aim of the procedure is to remove the cancer, whilst trying to preserve urinary continence and sexual function.

Who Can Have Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy?

Generally patients with localised prostate cancer will be considered this type of surgery. Also certain patients with locally advanced prostate cancer may be suitable for complete removal.

An urologist/uro-oncologist will review the patient to see if they are suitable. This will include cancer stage, PSA levels, biopsy results, imaging and overall health.

Are there any age restrictions for prostate cancer surgery?

There are not specific age restrictions for Radical Prostatectomy. However, doctors will consider how long the patient is likely to live for, their overall health, medical conditions and the potential benefits of the cancer treatment.

Patients who have a reasonable life expectancy (generally >10 years) may be considered. Older patients can also be suitable if they are fit enough for anaesthesia and surgery.

Who Can Benefit from Robot Radical Prostatectomy?

Patients who may be suitable for robot prostate cancer surgery include:

  • Localised prostate cancer.

  • Intermediate risk prostate cancer (selected).

  • High risk prostate cancer (selected).

  • Certain locally advanced prostate cancers.

  • Prostate cancer where complete removal is suitable.

  • Overall good health.

The treatment will depend on whether the cancer has spread beyond the prostate and whether a reasonable chance of controlling the cancer can be achieved via surgery.

Why are Cancer Stage and Grade Important?

Cancer stage and grade are very important to decide whether surgery is suitable.

  • Stage I – Generally only present in the prostate, may be small and low grade.

  • Stage II – Still in the prostate but may be larger and higher grade.

  • Stage III – May have spread beyond the prostate.

  • Stage IV – Has spread to surrounding lymph nodes or distant organs.

Not all patients with prostate cancer will require surgery. Low risk patients may be offered active surveillance. Other patients may benefit from radiotherapy, hormone therapy or a combination.

Metastatic prostate cancer will generally be treated with systemic therapies.

Can older adults have robot prostate surgery?

Yes, older adults may be suitable for robot radical prostatectomy if they are fit enough overall, has a reasonable life expectancy and the cancer is suitable for surgery.

The surgeon will review the patient to see if their heart and lungs are fit, kidneys are healthy, they do not have diabetes, high blood pressure or other medical conditions.

What is Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy?

Nerve sparing radical prostatectomy aims to preserve the neurovascular bundles either side of the prostate.

These nerves are very important in helping you achieve and maintain an erection. They are close to the prostate and may be affected by prostate cancer.

How does it Work?

During the operation the surgeon will carefully separate the prostate from the neurovascular bundles.

Depending on the location and risk of the cancer spreading, the surgeon may:

  • Bilateral nerve sparing – Both nerves are preserved.

  • Unilateral nerve sparing – One side is preserved.

  • Non nerve sparing – The affected nerves are removed.

This depends on the pre-operative MRI, PSA levels, biopsy grade, tumour location and risk of the cancer spreading.

Benefits of Nerve Sparing Radical Prostatectomy:

By preserving the nerves, can improve chances of regaining erections.

  • Improved chances of regaining erectile function.

  • Sexual function can be preserved.

  • Improved functional recovery.

  • Improved quality of life for suitable patients.

However, just because the nerves have been preserved doesn't mean you will have a full erection. This depends on your age, pre-operative sexual function, how much nerve sparing was performed and other health factors.

Can All Patients Have Nerve-Sparing?

No, nerve sparing is not suitable for everyone.

If the cancer was close to or has invaded the nerves, they may need to be removed to ensure complete cancer removal.

The prime aim of surgery is to remove the cancer. However, if possible, function will be preserved.

Tests Needed Prior to Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

A full pre-op assessment will be carried out to see how much the cancer has spread and whether robotic surgery is suitable.

Common tests include:

  • Blood tests and prostate cancer:

  • PSA

  • Full blood count.

  • Kidney function.

  • Liver function.

  • Blood sugar/HBA1C.

  • Blood group and cross matching if required.

  • Coagulation profile.

PSA levels will help determine how active the cancer is and monitor how well the treatment is working.

Prostate Biopsy and Gleason Score:

A prostate biopsy involves taking small tissue samples from the prostate using a needle.

These are then analysed under a microscope to determine if there are cancerous cells present and what the Gleason score/Grade Group is.

This helps the specialist determine how aggressive the cancer is and what treatment is suitable.

MRI and Imaging:

Depending on what stage the cancer is, you may have:

  • Multiparametric MRI.

  • PSMA PET CT.

  • CT scan of abdomen and pelvis.

  • Bone scan if required.

  • Ultrasound if required.

Multiparametric MRI will help determine what area the tumour is situated in, how it relates to surrounding tissue and help plan the surgery. PSMA PET CT may be recommended to see if the cancer may have spread in selected patients.

Cardiac and Anaesthetic Assessment:

You will have a pre-anaesthetic assessment to ensure you are suitable for general anaesthetic.

This may involve an ECG, echo, chest assessment and other tests depending on your medical history.

Exact tests will be dependent on cancer stage, medical conditions and hospital protocol.

What Happens During Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy?

There are many steps involved in robot prostate surgery.

Specialist Consultation:

The surgeon (urologist/uro-oncologist) will review your medical notes, PSA levels, biopsy results, MRI and cancer stage.

They will explain what the benefits, risks, alternative treatments and whether nerve sparing can be performed.

Preparation:

You will have pre-op tests and anaesthetic assessment.

You may be advised to:

  • Stop certain medications (with medical advice).

  • Fast.

  • Have bowel prep if required.

  • Tell your doctor about any allergies or medical conditions.

Anaesthetic:

The surgery will be performed under general anaesthetic.

Small incisions will be made in the abdomen. Robotic instruments and camera will be inserted.

The robotic system will provide an enlarged 3D image of the prostate and surrounding anatomy.

Prostate Removal:

The prostate is carefully separated from surrounding tissue.

The prostate and seminal vesicles will be removed. Lymph nodes may also be removed from the pelvis depending on cancer risk. During nerve sparing radical prostatectomy, the neurovascular bundles will be preserved where possible.

Bladder Rejoin:

Once the prostate has been removed the bladder will be rejoined to the urethra.

A urinary catheter will be inserted so urine can drain whilst the join heals. The tissue will be sent away for histopathology to determine the cancer stage, tumour characteristics and margin status.

Recovery:

The patient will be moved to recovery. Doctors will monitor you.

They will check your pain, urine output, bleeding and other factors. The urinary catheter will generally be in place for around 7-14 days.

Success Rates of Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

The success of robot prostate cancer surgery depends on the cancer stage, tumour grade, PSA levels, margin status, lymph node involvement and surgeon experience.

There is not a specific success rate.

Generally success can be determined by:

  • Cancer Control – Whether the cancer has been fully removed and no evidence of recurrence.

  • Biochemical Recurrence Free Survival – Whether PSA levels remain below the expected threshold.

  • Overall Survival – Percentage of patients who are alive.

  • Urinary Continence – Whether you can control your urine.

  • Erectile Function – Whether you can achieve and maintain erections.

What Determines the Success of Robot Prostate Surgery?

Many factors can affect the success of surgery and long term outcomes.

  • Cancer Stage and Grade.

  • PSA levels.

  • Whether cancer has spread beyond the prostate.

  • Margin Status.

  • Lymph Node Involvement.

  • Urologist Experience.

  • Nerve Sparing.

  • Overall Health and Age.

Patients with cancer confined to the prostate may have better long term cancer control.

What is Biochemical Recurrence?

After Radical Prostatectomy, PSA levels should be very low or undetectable as the prostate gland (source of PSA production) has been removed.

However, if PSA levels become detectable and increase over time, this may indicate biochemical recurrence. Further investigations may be recommended and further treatment such as salvage radiotherapy or hormone therapy.

Risks:

Despite robotic-assisted surgery being a minimally invasive procedure, it is still a major operation and can have risks. These can include:

  • Urinary Incontinence.

  • Erectile Dysfunction.

  • Bleeding.

  • Infection.

  • Blood Clots.

  • Damage to surrounding organs.

  • Leakage at bladder/urethra join.

  • Narrowing of the urinary passage.

  • Lymphoceles due to lymph node removal.

  • General anaesthetic risks.

Speak to your surgeon about the likelihood of these complications.

Cost of Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy in India

The cost of robot radical prostatectomy in India will depend on the hospital, surgeon fees, robotic system, cancer stage, complexity of surgery and length of hospital stay.

Generally, robot-assisted radical prostatectomy in private hospitals in India can cost around $5,400-$14,400.

Costs can increase if pelvic lymph nodes are removed, further investigations, ICU and complications.

What is Included in Robot Prostate Surgery?

Depending on hospital and package, costs can include:

  • Consultations.

  • Selected investigations.

  • Surgeon and anaesthetist fees.

  • Robotic system and instrument charges.

  • OT charges.

  • Accommodation and nursing charges.

  • General anaesthetic.

  • Monitoring.

  • Urinary catheter and standard consumables.

  • Histopathology.

Speak to the hospital to confirm exactly what is included.

Extra Costs:

  • Advanced imaging such as PSMA PET CT.

  • Further biopsy/pathology.

  • ICU.

  • Longer length of stay.

  • Blood transfusion.

  • Medication and treatment.

  • Complication treatment.

  • Follow up consultations and PSA.

International patients should also consider costs of medical visas, flights, accommodation, food, local travel and follow up.

What Affects the Cost?

The final cost of robot prostate surgery in India can vary depending on:

  • Location and category of hospital.

  • Experience of surgeon.

  • Robotic system.

  • Nerve sparing.

  • Pelvic lymph node removal.

  • Complexity and stage of cancer.

  • Length of stay.

  • Room category.

  • Extra treatment or complication management.

A personalised estimate can be given once the specialist has reviewed your medical notes.

Recovery from Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy

Recovery time will depend on your overall health, cancer stage and complexity of surgery.

Recovery:

After surgery you will be monitored for any pain, bleeding, urine output and complications.

You may be encouraged to:

  • Walk as advised.

  • Do breathing exercises.

  • Stay hydrated.

  • Eat as advised.

  • Avoid strenuous activity.

Many patients will be discharged within 1-3 days. The urinary catheter will generally be in place for around 7-14 days or as advised by your surgeon.

Urinary Continence:

It is common to have some incontinence after the prostate has been removed. The urinary sphincter and surrounding muscles may take time to get back to normal. Pelvic floor exercises (commonly known as Kegels) can help improve urinary control. These should be started as advised by your surgeon. Some patients will regain urinary continence within weeks/months.

Sexual Function:

Erectile dysfunction can occur after Radical Prostatectomy. Recovery will depend on:

  • Your age.

  • Pre-op sexual function.

  • Whether one or both nerves were preserved.

  • How much cancer was involved.

  • Medical conditions.

You may be advised to have penile rehabilitation, medication and/or other treatment. Please be aware that whilst nerve sparing can improve chances of functional recovery, it cannot guarantee you will have full erections.

Follow Up:

Regular follow up is important after prostate cancer surgery. You may require:

  • PSA.

  • Urology consultations.

  • Urinary continence.

  • Sexual function.

  • Imaging if indicated.

Further treatment if PSA increases or cancer recurs.

PSA is commonly performed around 6-8 weeks after surgery and then periodically. International patients should arrange follow up with their treating hospital and local urologist.

FAQ

  • What is Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy?

A minimally invasive procedure to remove the prostate and seminal vesicles. The surgeon uses a console to control robotic instruments to remove the prostate via small incisions in the abdomen.

  • Is Robot Radical Prostatectomy a Major Surgery?

Yes, despite small incisions being used, this is a major surgery. General anaesthetic will be administered and you will be monitored in hospital. A urinary catheter will be required.

  • Can Radical Prostatectomy Cure Prostate Cancer?

Radical Prostatectomy can potentially cure prostate cancer if it is confined to the prostate and completely removed. However, there is a risk of recurrence especially if you have higher risk cancer. Regular PSA monitoring is very important.

  • What are the Difference between Robotic and Open Radical Prostatectomy?

Open surgery will require a larger incision in the abdomen. Robotic surgery uses small incisions and specialised robotic instruments. It can reduce blood loss and quicker initial recovery in some patients.

  • What is Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy?

Nerve sparing radical prostatectomy is a type of surgery where the surgeon will try to preserve the neurovascular bundles which help you achieve erections. This is performed if the location and extent of cancer can allow safe preservation of the nerves.

  • Can I Regain Erectile Function?

Yes, some patients can regain erectile function. This can depend on how well the nerves have been preserved. However, this can take months and longer. This will depend on your age, pre-op sexual function and how well the nerves have been preserved.

  • How Long Does Robot Radical Prostatectomy Take?

The surgery is generally performed over 2-4 hours. This can vary depending on the cancer stage, removal of pelvic lymph nodes and complexity.

  • How long will I be in hospital?

Many patients will stay in hospital for between 1-3 days. If there are any complications then this may be longer.

  • How long will my recovery be after robotic radical prostatectomy?

Most patients can slowly start returning to light activities after a few weeks. A full recovery may take several months.

  • Will I have radiotherapy after radical prostatectomy?

This will not necessarily be required. However, some patients may be advised to have radiotherapy or other treatments if high risk features are identified on your final pathology or if there are raised or persistently raised PSAs.

  • Can prostate cancer come back after robotic prostatectomy?

Yes. It is possible that prostate cancer can come back after surgery. Having regular PSA checks will allow us to see if this is possible.

  • Can international patients come to India for robotic prostatectomy?

Yes. International patients can come to India for specialist advice, staging and robotic prostatectomy. Your medical reports and imaging should be reviewed by your specialist prior to coming to India.

Customised Robotic Prostate Surgery Assessment in India

To choose the best treatment for your prostate cancer we will need to review your cancer staging, biopsy results, PSA and imaging reports along with your general health.

GetWellGo can help international patients find the right urologist, uro oncologist and specialist hospital for robotic assisted radical prostatectomy. We can:

  • Review prostate cancer reports

  • Find you a specialist with experience in robotic surgery

  • Book online consultations

  • Provide a personalised cost estimate

  • Advice on nerve sparing surgery

  • Coordinate hospital visits and treatment

  • Medical visa support

  • Airport transfers and accommodation

  • Post op follow up

If you or a family member has been diagnosed with prostate cancer please send across your PSA reports, biopsy results, MRI scans and any other relevant medical reports. Our team can help you find the right treatment options and get you a specialist opinion for robotic prostate surgery in India.

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