Prostate Cancer Treatment

For patients diagnosed with stage one or stage two prostate cancer, Dr. Herrera can perform a laparoscopic radical prostatectomy to remove the prostate and prevent cancer from spreading to surrounding tissues. Once anesthesia has been administered, Dr. Herrera will strategically place small incisions throughout your abdomen. He will then insert small, articulate surgical instruments through the incisions, along with a laparoscope. This tool consists of a small video camera attached to the end of a flexible tube. The camera will transmit images to a monitor that will allow Dr. Herrera to guide the surgical tools in order to remove the prostate, seminal vesicles, and surrounding tissues.

Compared to an open prostatectomy, this procedure offers many advantages:

• Minimized risk of excessive bleeding
• Minimal hospital stay
• Fast recovery
• Reduced need for a catheter
• Immediate results

Open Prostatectomy

If prostate cancer has reached a later stage, Dr. Herrera can perform an open prostatectomy in conjunction with chemotherapy medication. During the procedure, you will be placed under anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

Dr. Herrera will either make an incision on your lower abdomen below the navel or between the anus and scrotum, depending on the severity of cancer and how far it has spread. With careful skill and precision, he will remove the prostate and surrounding tissues, in addition to nearby lymph nodes. After the procedure, a catheter will be inserted into your penis to help drain your bladder. The catheter will need to remain in place for about one to two weeks. Once removed, normal urinary function will resume. An open prostatectomy generally requires at least one to two nights in the surgical facility where Dr. Herrera and staff can monitor your response to surgery and make any necessary adjustments.

If prostate cancer has reached a later stage, Dr. Herrera can perform an open prostatectomy in conjunction with chemotherapy medication.

Risks and Side Effects

As with any surgery, there are risks and side effects associated with prostate cancer surgery. These include infection, surgical complications, urinary incontinence, and erectile dysfunction. If patients experience erectile dysfunction after surgery, Dr. Herrera can provide shockwave therapy, an effective and non-invasive treatment that can restore function without the need for drugs. Dr. Herrera is the only provider of shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction in the Southern California area.

After your procedure, Dr. Herrera will provide detailed postsurgical instructions to foster your recovery. He will also monitor your recovery through a series of follow-up appointments.

Schedule Your Visit

If you have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, Dr. Herrera is available to meet with you to discuss treatment options and provide answers to all your questions and concerns. You can contact us online or by calling 66 4976 6433 to schedule your consultation.