This page has been created to answer frequently asked questions, provide pre and post operative instructions for robotic prostatectomy, and as a place where potential patients can read testimonials of Dr Berry's patients who have undergone robotic prostatectomy.
Considering robotic surgery - this video outlines why you might consider robotic surgery and the basic way the robot works
Risks associated with robotic prostatectomy. Video of surgeon discussing risks associated with any form of robotic pelvic surgery
Preoperative and Postoperative Information - Preparing for surgery: what to do in the weeks and days leading up to surgery and how to recovery in the days and weeks after surgery
Penile Rehabilitation after surgery - information packet for patients considering active penile rehabilitation
How do I know if my surgeon has enough experience? Recent published papers suggest it takes 150-250 cases to gain the full benefit of how to use the robot properly and 30-40 cases a year to maintain a surgeons skills with a lower complication rate. Dr Berry was involved with 350 cases during fellowship and performs 50 cases a year.
Do I need to donate blood prior? No. The need for blood transfusion is <1%. Dr Berry has operated on Jehovah's Witness members without incident.
Does the robot break? While minor mechanical problems occasionally occur Dr Berry has only been involved in one case out of over 300 where open conversion was required
Are there any conditions that prevent me from being a candidate for robotic prostatectomy? In rare instances, severe medical problems prevent patients from tolerating general anesthesia and being able to undergo robotic prostatectomy. However, previous hernia repairs, abdominal or prostate surgery are not contraindications to robotic prostatectomy.
How long will I stay in the hospital? Patients from the morning are discharged within 24 hrs, afternoon patients may stay a second night.
What should I avoid when I leave hospital? Use common sense and avoid early strenuous activity: if it hurts, don’t do it. Some men are constipated after surgery due to general anesthesia effects. Dr Berry suggests staying on a clear liquid or soft diet until the first bowel movement after surgery.
How long will the urethral catheter stay in to allow the reconstructed bladder neck repair to the urethra to heal? Usually 7 days. In significantly overweight men Dr Berry leaves the catheter for 12-14 days.
How long will it take before I return to normal activities? Some men are able to play golf and return to work one week after surgery; however, others take 2 to 4 weeks to fully recover.
Patient Stories - click for more
Steve P
" I would highly recommend Dr. Berry and the da Vinci procedure to anyone who elects to have surgery. If you are overweight, do yourself a favor and lose as much weight as possible before surgery. Do the Kegels faithfully, and your incontinence will disappear magically."
Below are some of Australia's deadliest snakes - the Taipan (deadliest in the world), Common Brown and Black Tiger
daVinci Robotic Video
