One of the most common types of cancer in men is prostate cancer. The prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces and transports sperm. Prostate cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the prostate mutate, rapidly divide. Treatment usually consists of a radical prostatectomy. During a radical prostatectomy, a surgeon removes the entire prostate and any malignant lymph nodes, while trying to preserve the muscles and nerves that control urination and sexual function, according to the MayoClinic.com. Complications are rare, but there are risks associated with the procedure.
Incontinence
Incontinence is a common complication associated with a radical prostatectomy. Most men experience some leakage once the catheter is removed about two to three weeks after the procedure. This condition usually goes away after the prostatectomy, but in a small percentage of men the procedure causes total incontinence or the inability to control urine flow. The Prostate Cancer Guide states that approximately 5 percent of men who have a radical prostatectomy experience total incontinence. Treatment usually consists of incontinence products that contain the excess urine such as pad or specially-designed underwear.
Impotence
A serious risk associated with a radical prostatectomy is impotence or the inability to achieve or maintain an erection long enough to complete a sexual act. A radical prostatectomy can impair erectile function by altering the flow of blood to the penis, according to The Prostate Cancer Guide. During the surgery, the prostate and seminal vesicles, the structures responsible for most of the fluid in semen are removed causing the vas deferens or the tube that prepares the semen for ejaculation to stop functioning, according to the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. Most of the time, the impotence is only temporary and does not leave any long-term effects.
Excessive Bleeding or Blood Clots
Men who have a radical prostatectomy are at risk for excessive bleeding or blood clots, according to the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute. While some bleeding is to be expected after surgery, severe bleeding can occur when a blood vessel is accidentally damaged during the procedure. Excessive bleeding can be life-threatening so treatment usually consists of emergency surgery to stop the bleeding. Blood clots can form in the legs following surgery due to inactivity. Sluggish blood flow can cause blood clots to form in the deep veins in the body. In some severe cases, blood clots can break free from the veins and travel to the lungs causing chest pain, shortness of breath and/or possibly death, according to the MayoClinic.com. Treatment for blood clots usually consists of compression stocking and walking to get the blood flowing to the heart.
