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Retzius-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Published on: May 19, 2022
Men's experiences following laparoscopic radical prostatectomy: a qualitative descriptive study
Jill L Milne1, Judith A Spiers, Katherine N Moore
1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alta., Canada. jill.milne@shaw.com
International Journal of Nursing Studies
|May 8, 2007
Summary
Men undergoing laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) need better information and support for post-surgery discomfort, incontinence, and erectile dysfunction. Nurses can improve patient experience by providing comprehensive education and peer support.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Oncology
- Patient Experience Research
Background:
- Laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (LRP) is an increasingly popular minimally invasive treatment for prostate cancer.
- Limited understanding of patient experiences post-LRP hinders informed decision-making and adequate support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the lived experiences of men following LRP.
- To assess the adequacy of pre- and postoperative support for men undergoing LRP.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative descriptive study involving 19 men aged 46-76 who had undergone LRP.
- Data collected through individual and focus group interviews.
- Inductive content analysis used to interpret participant perspectives.
Main Results:
- Patients actively sought information but were unprepared for significant discomfort and incontinence.
- Informal peer discussions were highly valued by participants.
- Erectile dysfunction was a major, often unaddressed, concern.
Conclusions:
- Nurses are crucial in improving the LRP patient journey through enhanced pre- and postoperative education.
- Facilitating peer support and proactively addressing side effects like incontinence and erectile dysfunction is vital.
- Increased follow-up care is recommended, especially concerning erectile dysfunction and early hospital discharge.
