Robotic surgery expands access and improves treatment for prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common tumors among men in Brazil. According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), the estimate for the period 2023-2025 is 71,730 new cases per year. Despite this scenario, disease management has progressed rapidly. Robotic surgery has emerged as one of the main factors responsible for improving recovery and increasing the success of procedures.

Despite its high frequency – the tumor is most common in men in Brazil, if we exclude skin cancers other than melanoma – the therapeutic landscape has transformed. The adoption of robotic surgery, especially in specialized centers, has been consolidated as a strategy capable of improving postoperative recovery and increasing the chances of successful disease control.

For urologist and robotic surgeon Victor Hugo Borges Silva, of the Instituto de Cirurgia Robótica do Triângulo (ICR.T), this type of intervention has become “decisive in the care of patients with the disease”, precisely because it allows less invasive procedures and shorter recovery times — essential factors in a context where the majority of diagnoses occur in elderly men.

Evolution of surgical techniques in the treatment of the disease

Surgical intervention remains the main therapeutic resource, both in initial cases and in more complex and locally advanced situations. However, the way we operate has evolved. “Currently, surgery is the main treatment for prostate cancer. Due to the precision and various advantages offered by technology, robotic surgery has emerged as the most effective technique,” ​​explains the specialist.

According to the doctor, features such as expanded vision, stability filters and greater precision make the procedure safer and reduce the risk of injury to structures around the prostate, a critical factor for the success of the procedure.

Less pain, less bleeding and faster recovery

Robotic surgery uses articulated arms that perform delicate, consistent movements, making the procedure minimally invasive. “Precision of movements, expanded 3D vision and other technological resources allow for smaller incisions, less tissue damage, reduced intraoperative bleeding and faster discharge from the hospital,” explains the urologist.

These factors, he says, promote a postoperative period with less pain, less blood loss and a quicker return to activities, a combination that represents one of the main advantages of robotics.

Preservation of urinary continence and sexual function

The specialist emphasizes that preserving healthy tissues and nerves responsible for urinary continence and sexual function constitutes one of the greatest challenges in surgery for the disease. “This is a key differentiator for patients who are looking for an effective treatment, but with less impact on their routine and self-esteem,” he observes.

“With more delicate and precise movements of the robotic arms and expanded 3D vision, it is possible to better preserve the structures responsible for continence and sexual function, thus providing a significant improvement in quality of life after surgery,” he adds.

Importance of innovation for the future of urology

Dr Victor Hugo emphasizes that the logistical structure of the ICR.T contributes to broadening access to technology, whether by training other surgeons or by carrying out very complex interventions, often unachievable elsewhere.

For doctors, with institutions like ICR.T investing in technology and professional training, robotics tends to become more and more accessible. “This means more effective treatments, a dignified recovery and quality of life, in addition to innovative comprehensive care, from pre-to post-operative,” he concludes.

Website: https://icrobotica.com.br/