Surgery of any type can be frightening, and the choice between new surgical techniques and traditional ones may be difficult. Traditional surgery with a large incision into the body providing the surgeon plenty of operating room is often painful and may require a long recovery period. If you have chosen to have surgery to treat your prostate cancer, be sure to educate yourself on the different types of surgery available. This article should not be used as medical advice, but rather a general overview of basic information. Discuss all treatment options with your doctor, and seek professional medical assistance for all illnesses.

Evolution
In the beginning of the 20th century veterinarians and doctors began making smaller incisions on their patients to do exploratory surgery. Since it was difficult if not impossible to see inside these incisions extensive surgery was not possible. With continued research and advanced technology, methods were developed by which a small camera could be placed inside the minimized incision giving the surgeon ample viewing capabilities by watching a screen showing what the camera was transmitting from within the body.

Incision Size
Laparoscopic surgery differs from traditional surgery mainly by the size of the incision needed to perform the operation, and is often called keyhole surgery. Much smaller incisions are made in keyhole surgery for prostate cancer. A series of 5 incisions are made which are measured by centimeters rather than inches. A tube is placed in one these incisions to pump carbon monoxide gas into the abdominal cavity. This provides space for the surgeon to obtain a clearer view once the laparoscope camera has been inserted.

Laparoscopy Advantages
Since incisions are smaller bleeding is reduced considerably and hospital stays are usually shortened depending upon your condition. Pain is diminished and prescription pain medication is often unnecessary. Many patients use only over the counter pain relievers.

Preparing for Surgery
You should discuss any concerns you have about your choice of surgery with your doctor. He can best answer your questions with specifics related to your individual case. He will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, what procedures will take place, and what you can expect during recovery. If you have any special requests now is the time to let your choices be known as it is often difficult to change procedures on the day surgery is scheduled.

After Surgery
Post operative procedures are basically the same for keyhole surgery as traditional. However, your healing time and pain level will be diminished. A draining tube will be removed during one of your follow up visits. With keyhole surgery this can often be accomplished a week earlier than with traditional surgery. This type of surgery is relatively new for prostate cancer and it has not yet been determined if other postoperative symptoms and side effects are also diminished.

Effects of Laparoscopic Surgery
You may find it somewhat difficult to walk during the first couple of days after surgery. The gas used to inflate the abdominal cavity does not completely dissipate after surgery and may push on your diaphragm causing pain in different areas your body. This pain is transient and will diminish as your body absorbs the leftover gas.

Technological advances can be exciting as well as frightening. Be sure to understand the procedure you are about to participate in. Discuss similar cases of other patients with your doctor. Talk to the patients themselves when possible. These discussions can go a long way in calming your apprehensions and quieting any anxieties you may have. You may wish to join a support group. Check with your hospital for suggestions or start one of your own.