You are going to have a robotic prostatectomy. Here are clear and practical recommendations to help you arrive at the hospital feeling calm, facilitate the anesthesia, and optimize your recovery. I explain what to do in the days leading up to the procedure, on the day of the surgery, and after you return home.
Before the procedure: lifestyle and examinations
During the period preceding the operation, you can lead a completely normal life. Nothing is forbidden: you can eat normally, consume alcohol in moderation, and engage in sexual activity. Ejaculation is not a problem.
However, I recommend adopting a low-residue diet a few days before the procedure. This facilitates bowel movements and postoperative recovery.
Essential medical checkups
- Biological assessment : blood test prescribed.
- Urine test : to be brought to the anesthesia consultation.
- Consultation with the anesthesiologist : he will carry out a complete assessment, check for the absence of contraindications and may request a cardiological assessment or other examinations if necessary.
Organization for returning home
After a robotic prostatectomy, home follow-up is often necessary. I recommend finding a home nurse before the operation so that everything is ready for your discharge. This will avoid stressful arrangements once you’re back home.
The day of the procedure: practical instructions
Young
Arrive on an empty stomach. Specifically: do not eat any solid food after midnight . Clear drinks are permitted until the time prescribed by the hospital. Among these, choose apple juice only . Why apple juice? It is low in acidity and helps stimulate bowel movements, which promotes a faster recovery.
Clothing and personal belongings
- Opt for comfortable clothing (jogging pants, t-shirts) and avoid tight-fitting clothes.
- Bring a toiletry bag.
- A morning shower with regular soap is sufficient. The use of antiseptic soap such as Betadine is no longer recommended.
- Do not shave or wax the operated area: the medical team will take care of it if necessary.
Drugs
Bring your usual medications. Only take them after approval from the medical team or the anesthesiologist on the day of the procedure.
Practical tips summarized — checklist
- Maintain normal activity levels. Adopt a low-residue diet a few days beforehand.
- Carry out the prescribed tests (blood test, urine culture) and bring them to the anesthesiologist.
- Find a home nurse before the operation for post-operative assistance.
- Do not eat any solid food after midnight on the day of the procedure.
- Only clear drinks are allowed: choose apple juice .
- Wear comfortable clothing, shower with regular soap, and do not shave the operated area.
- Bring your medication with you and only take it after receiving medical approval.
Why these recommendations?
The purpose of these instructions is multifaceted: to reduce anesthetic risks, facilitate robotic surgery, and accelerate postoperative recovery. Regular bowel movements and good general preparation decrease complications and shorten recovery time, even when prostatectomy is performed on an outpatient basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink something other than apple juice?
In practice, some clear drinks are allowed, but I specifically recommend apple juice because it’s low in acidity and beneficial for digestion. Avoid dairy drinks or those high in particles.
Should I change my treatments (anticoagulants, antidiabetics…)?
Do not change anything without speaking to the anesthesiologist or your doctor. Some treatments require stopping or adjusting before the procedure.
Is it dangerous to have sex in the days leading up to the procedure?
No. Sexual intercourse and ejaculation before the operation do not pose any problems and do not increase the risks of the operation.
To conclude
Good preparation reduces stress and facilitates care. Respect the fasting schedule, complete the required tests, arrange for home follow-up, and adhere to simple comfort guidelines (clothing, showering, medication). If you have any specific questions about your case, discuss them with your anesthesiologist or surgeon.
