Page 1 - Radical Prostatectomy - Discharge Instructions

Urological Health
Radical prostatectomy
Discharge instructions
You are being discharged from hospital after having a radical prostatectomy for control of
prostate cancer.
ou are now ready to be discharged from hospital
Yafter having a radical prostatectomy for control
of prostate cancer. The prostate was removed
completely and the urinary tract was reconstructed by
suturing the bladder to the urethra (“urinary passage”)
over a catheter (bladder drainage tube).
Side view of catheter in bladder after
prostate removal
Roula Drossis how to manage the catheter and urine collection
connection
of bladder
catheter to urethra
Activity
It is normal to feel the need for extra rest in the first
few weeks after a radical prostatectomy. Gradually
resume your usual activities over the next month and
try to go for a short walk every day. Avoid heavy lifting
(over 10 kg or 20 lbs) or straining for about six weeks
from the date of surgery as these activities can injure
the healing incision.
Travel is not advisable for about four weeks, until your
energy level has returned to normal. Sexual activity
may be resumed when your catheter is removed and
you are comfortable.
Wound care
There may be some bruising or swelling around the
incision and into the base of the penis or scrotum. This
should disappear gradually over several weeks. The
incision should eventually fade over several months.
The staples or sutures closing your incision may be
removed prior to your discharge from hospital. If not,
you will be informed when they are to be removed,
usually within a week of your surgery. The staples or
sutures may be replaced with skin tapes which can be
removed after one week.
A dressing may be applied to the incision for
additional protection. This should be changed as
necessary if it becomes soiled or wet.
Catheter care
A catheter running from the bladder and out through
the urethra out the end of your penis drains urine while
the new connection heals. A balloon on the catheter
tip in the bladder prevents it from falling out.
Before your discharge from hospital, you will be taught
bag. Bloody discolouration of the urine or small blood
clots are not unusual. A “leg bag” can be fastened
to the calf with straps and worn discretely under the
trousers. A larger bag can be attached in the evening
and placed at the bedside for overnight drainage.
It is not unusual for a small amount of urine to leak
from the urethra alongside the catheter, particularly
with straining or at the time of bowel movement.
This happens because the muscular urine control
“valve” makes a poor seal around the catheter. If
this happens, you may need to wear a small pad in
your underwear. You may have an urge to urinate
from bladder spasms. This may be controlled with
medication, if necessary.
A discharge, sometimes with blood or crusting, at the
opening of the penis or on the catheter is common. It
can be washed away daily with a facecloth and mild
soap.
Bowel function
Your normal bowel pattern should return when you
resume your usual diet and activity. Avoid straining
to have a bowel movement. A non-prescription stool
softener, like docusate sodium (Colace™), is often
helpful.
Hygiene
You may bathe or shower as you like. Prolonged
soaking in water, e.g. hot tub or swimming, should be
avoided until your catheter is removed.
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