Surgical removal of the prostate is used to treat both prostate cancer and an enlarged prostate, according to MedlinePlus. When treating an enlarged prostate, all or part of the gland can be removed in an open procedure or in one of several minimally invasive procedures designed to minimize the size of the incision. The best method depends on the circumstances of the patient. In the case of cancer, a more extensive surgery that also removes some of the surrounding tissues, structures and lymph nodes may be necessary, according to the American Urological Association Foundation. All surgeries to remove the prostate can cause sexual and urological side effects.
Incontinence
Prostate surgery can cause a man to lose control of his urine and sometimes his bowels as well, according to MedlinePlus. Many men will need to use a diaper for weeks or even months after surgery but usually this complication resolves itself, according the American Urological Association Foundation. If not, additional procedures may be needed to fix the problem.
Impotence
All prostate procedures carry a risk of impotence or the inability to maintain an erection, according to MedlinePlus. This occurs because the nerves that are responsible for creating an erection can be damaged during surgery, according to the American Urological Association Foundation. This is not always permanent but it can take months to years to recover the ability to maintain an erection and many men will find their erections never recover to the same level they had before surgery. If the condition is permanent it can sometimes be treated with medication or other procedures.
Infertility
Infertility is sometimes this is caused by damage to the sperm itself, according to MedlinePlus. But it can also be caused by a condition known as retrograde ejaculation, where the semen backs up into the bladder instead of being ejaculated out through the urethra.
Urethral Stricture
Some procedures can cause urethral stricture or scarring around the urethra that causes it to narrow the passageway for elimination of urine, according to MedlinePlus. This can lead to pain and other difficulties with urination. It can be treated by widening the urethra with a special instrument, using a catheter or with surgery.
Other Risks
Sometimes surgery to remove the prostate can cause damage or scarring to other organs and tissues surrounding the prostate, according to MedlinePlus. One common procedure called transurethral resection of the prostate or TURP can cause water buildup in the tissues around the prostate during surgery. Like all surgeries, prostate removal carries risks of blood clots, bleeding, infection, breathing problems, or complications like heart attack during surgery.
