The prostate is responsible for producing seminal fluid in men, a substance that nourishes and transports sperm. Prostate removal is performed through a surgery called prostatectomy, which is usually performed for the treatment of cancer or for an enlarged prostate. Prostate removal can cause complications immediately after the surgery or it may result in long-term problems.
Incontinence
MayoClinic.com says that urinary incontinence can result as a complication of prostate removal. It goes onto say that some men experience loss of bladder control and a strong urge to urinate. There may be occasional leakage of urine or the loss of control may be complete. The condition may take several weeks to months to get better and may require an additional surgery or the use of a catheter. If a catheter is used for a long time, the person may be at increased risk of urinary tract infections. This in turn, may also require antibiotics or other treatment. MedlinePlus says that prostate removal may also cause bowel incontinence or loss of control in bowel movements.
Dry Orgasm
Since the prostate produces the seminal fluid that carries the sperm, its removal may cause problems during sex. According to MayoClinic.com, the individual is still able to experience orgasm during sex. The ejaculation of semen, however, is either too little or none at all. MedlinePlus says that prostate removal can cause infertility in the individual. Erectile dysfunction or an inability to maintain an erection to have sex may also occur as an effect of prostate removal. Erectile dysfunction or impotence may improve in some cases; however, in many instances this effect is permanent.
Urethral Stricture
MedlinePlus reports that urethral stricture is a complication of prostate removal. The urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder. In urethral stricture, the urinary outlet narrows due to the formation of scar tissue. This makes urination difficult and may require an additional treatment.
Retrograde Ejaculation
Another complication of prostate removal is that the individual may not be able to pass the semen out through the urethra. Instead it goes back up into the bladder. MedlinePlus calls this a retrograde ejaculation.
Other Complications
Heavy bleeding during the surgery may require blood transfusion. It may also continue even after the procedure and require additional treatment. Damage to the nearby internal organs and structures may also occur as a result of the surgery.
