Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of minimally invasive surgery over traditional surgery? Do the success rates differ?

In general, minimally invasive surgery takes less time than open, or traditional surgery. Patients often only need to stay in the hospital overnight versus several days or more in the hospital when a surgery is open. Minimally invasive surgeries involve smaller incisions, less blood loss and pain, so there is a faster recovery and return to pre surgical activities. Outcomes are comparable; surgeon expertise is key to the success of surgery, however performed.

What are the advantages of robotic versus laparoscopic surgery?

A robotic surgeon benefits from 3D magnification which increases the image he or she sees ten-fold, less blood which results in a clearer field of operating field vision, and increased dexterity for the surgeon because the controls on the robot offer increased range of motion for the hands.

Why would I not be a candidate for minimally invasive surgery?

Most patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery, but tumor size or location may require that we perform a traditional procedure.

What is a cystoscopy and what is it used for?

A cystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure designed to check for disease of your bladder and urethra (tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of your body). In this procedure, your physician will insert a narrow hollow tube equipped with a lens into your urethra in order to view its lining. The urethra is numbed with a local anesthetic so insertion of the tube is not painful. The procedure generally lasts 5-10 minutes.