Robotic prostatectomy is revolutionizing prostate cancer treatment by offering a less invasive and more precise option. Known as robotic-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy (RALP), it is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat prostate cancer.
Thanks to prostate cancer surgery advancements, the 5-year survival rate of prostate cancer has elevated to 99%. In the United States today, over 95% of prostate cancer surgeries are done using Da coVinci robotic systems.
This technique utilizes the Da Vinci Surgical System, a leader-follower robotic platform that enables surgeons to perform complex operations with enhanced precision.
Key Takeaways:
Turkey offers one of the most affordable prices for robot-assisted radical prostatectomy;
Type of cancer, duration of hospital stay, and postoperative care contribute to the average cost of robotic prostatectomy;
Robotic prostatectomy is twice as costly as open radical prostatectomy;
Insurance providers will cover surgical robotics, but the patients should be aware of deductibles;
Additional procedures, such as nerve-sparing surgery, add thousands of dollars to the total price.
This article will explore the factors influencing the price and advantages of robotic surgery compared to other cancer treatments. For patients wondering, "How much does a robotic surgery for prostate cancer cost?", Bookimed is ready to help.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Robotic Radical Prostatectomy Cost?
- What Are the Benefits of the Robotic Surgery for Prostate?
- The Difference Between Robotic and Open Surgery
- What Factors Affect Robotic Surgery Cost?
- Cost Comparison: Robotic Prostatectomy vs. Open Prostatectomy
- Cost-Effectiveness of Robotic Prostatectomy
- The Best Hospitals for Robotic Prostate Cancer Surgery
- Overview of Patient Outcomes
- Financing Options for Da Vinci-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
- Life After Robotic Surgery
- How to Get the Best Price With Bookimed?
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Is a Robotic Radical Prostatectomy Cost?
Robot-assisted radical prostatectomy prices vary in different countries. Bookimed has picked the top destinations based on our Smart Ranking System. We considered patient reviews, diagnostic and treatment costs, and doctor experience.
Here's a table with estimated costs for robotic prostatectomy in different countries:
| Country | Robotic Prostatectomy Price |
|---|---|
From $14,000 | |
From $14,000 | |
From $24,000 | |
From $14,000 | |
From $32,000 | |
From $19,000 | |
From $19,000 |
What Are the Benefits of the Robotic Surgery for Prostate?
Robotic prostatectomy, a minimally invasive surgical technique, utilizes a robotic system to assist the surgeon in the precise removal of the prostate gland. This advanced procedure is often preferred over traditional open surgery due to the increased precision, flexibility, and control it provides to the surgeon.
During robotic prostatectomy, small incisions are made in the abdomen, through which the robotic instruments are inserted. The surgeon controls these instruments from a console, allowing for enhanced accuracy during the operation.
Compared to open radical prostatectomy, the procedure offers notable advantages, such as:
Smaller Incisions. Robotic prostatectomy involves smaller incisions (3-5 holes less than 1 cm each compared to a single 4-5 inch incision in open radical prostatectomy). It results in smaller scars and minimizes infection risk.
Reduced Blood Loss. The precision of robotic surgery often results in less blood loss, which can decrease the need for blood transfusions (1-2% for robotic surgeries, 40-45% for open surgeries).
Less Postoperative Pain. Due to smaller incisions, patients experience minimal pain and discomfort.
Faster Recovery. Robotic surgery shows less recovery time, in contrast to open radical prostatectomy. Most patients return to work within two weeks, while after regular operations, they need to stay at the hospital for at least two months.
Improved urinary and sexual function. Robotic surgery preserves vital structures without interfering with the bladder and sexual function.
Besides, a minimally invasive approach lowers the risk of problems and side effects associated with traditional surgery.
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The Difference Between Robotic and Open Surgery
RALP for prostate cancer is often better than open radical prostatectomy. The table below shows the distinct differences between robotic and traditional treatment approaches.
| Feature | Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy (RALP) | Open Radical Prostatectomy (ORP) |
|---|---|---|
Surgical Approach | Minimally invasive with small incisions | Open surgery with large incision |
| Hospital Stay | Shorter (2-3 weeks) | Longer (2 days or more) |
| Recovery Time | Faster recovery | Longer recovery period |
| Pain and Discomfort | Less pain and discomfort | More pain and discomfort |
| Scarring | Minimal scarring | Larger scar |
Risk of Complications | Lower risk of complications | Higher risk of complications |
| Blood Loss | Less blood loss | More blood loss |
Urinary and Sexual Function | Generally better outcome | May have more difficulty regaining urinary and sexual function |
| Cost | Potentially higher costs due to specialized equipment and techniques | May be less expensive overall |
Oncologists achieve better outcomes for patients undergoing robotic surgery using advanced technology.
What Factors Affect Robotic Surgery Cost?
The cost of robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy depends on several factors:
🩺 Type of Prostate Cancer
The stage and grade of prostate cancer can influence the complexity of the surgery. More advanced cancers may require more extensive procedures, leading to higher costs. Additionally, the price may increase if the patient has other health conditions that may complicate the surgery or require additional precautions.
👨⚕️ Additional Procedures
Nerve-sparing prostatectomy aims to preserve nerve function during prostate cancer surgery. This can help maintain normal erections and urinary function after surgery.
After prostatectomy, 97% of patients who had both nerves spared were able to get erections, and 80% of those who had one nerve spared could too.
Similarly, lymph node dissection, if necessary to assess the extent of cancer spread, can increase the cost of prostate surgery. It involves removing and examining lymph nodes in the pelvic area to check for cancer involvement.
🏨 Hospital Stay
The length of hospital stay after the surgery can vary depending on the patient's condition and recovery progress. More extended hospital stays will incur higher costs for accommodation, nursing care, and other related expenses.
🩺 Post-Operative Care
Rehabilitation, such as physical therapy, may be required to aid in recovery and improve function, contributing to the overall cost. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon and other healthcare providers are essential for monitoring the patient's progress and detecting potential complications.
🌏 Geographic Location
Costs for robotic prostatectomy can vary significantly across different regions and countries. Factors such as the cost of living, healthcare infrastructure, and competition among medical facilities can influence pricing.
💵 Insurance Coverage
Even with insurance coverage, patients may face out-of-pocket costs, such as:
💰 Deductibles are the amounts you pay before activating the health insurance plan.
💰 Co-payments are a fixed amount you pay each time you receive a covered healthcare service. For example, you might pay a $20 co-payment for each doctor's visit.
💰 Coinsurance is a percentage of the cost of a covered healthcare service that you're responsible for paying. For example, you might have a 20% co-insurance rate, meaning you pay 20% of the total cost of a hospital stay or procedure.
The insurance coverage of specific health care costs can affect the patient's financial burden, making it less noticeable.
🛏 Medical Center and Surgeon Fees
Here are the factors contributing to direct hospital costs:
Cutting-Edge Equipment. Medical centers that invest in the latest medical technology and equipment can often provide more advanced and effective treatments. These investments can contribute to higher costs but may also lead to improved patient outcomes.
Research and Development. Centers prioritizing research and development can stay at the forefront of medical advancements. This investment in innovation can drive higher costs but may also result in access to groundbreaking treatments.
Academic Affiliations. Centers affiliated with medical schools or research institutions often have access to leading experts and can provide a higher level of care.
Top-Rated Oncologists. Hospitals that employ highly skilled medical professionals may have a higher cost of prostatectomy. However, this expertise can be crucial for complex procedures and challenging cases.
Accreditations and Certifications. Medical centers that meet rigorous quality and safety standards may have higher operating costs due to investments in quality assurance programs and adherence to regulatory requirements. However, these measures can ensure higher care and patient safety.
While the initial expense of robotic prostatectomy may be higher, it can lead to long-term cost savings by reducing the risk of complications and hospital readmissions. Additionally, many health insurance plans cover robotic prostatectomy, which can help alleviate the financial burden for patients.
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Cost Comparison: Robotic Prostatectomy vs. Open Prostatectomy
While robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy offers several benefits over traditional cancer surgery, it can be pretty costly. On average, the cost of robotic prostatectomy ranges from $14,000 to $40,000 or more. Traditional radical prostatectomy typically costs between $8,000 and $20,000 or more.
Factors such as the complexity of the surgery, hospital fees, and the country’s healthcare system contribute to the cost differences.
Here's an overview of the best European hospitals and their prices based on our Smart Ranking System.
| Country | Robotic Prostatectomy | Open Prostatectomy |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey | $14,000 - $27,000 | $9,000 - $18,000 |
| Czech Republic | $14,000 - $27,000 | $9,000 - $16,000 |
| Germany | $24,000 - $27,000 | $24,000 - $27,000 |
| Israel | $14,000 - $28,000 | $8,000 - $18,000 |
| Spain | $14,000 - $33,000 | $8,000 - $19,000 |
| United Kingdom | $14,000 - $28,000 | $7,500 - $14,000 |
| Ukraine | $14,000 - $28,000 | $4,000 - $13,000 |
These are estimated starting prices, and the final cost can increase based on additional procedures. For example, if a nerve-sparing surgery is needed to preserve sexual function, it may raise the price by several thousand dollars. Please contact the Bookimed coordinator to get a personalized treatment plan with estimated treatment costs.
Cost-Effectiveness of Robotic Prostatectomy
The cost-effectiveness of robotic prostatectomy has been a subject of ongoing research and debate. While robotic prostatectomy may involve higher upfront costs, studies suggest that long-term outcomes justify the investment, particularly in reduced complications and faster recovery.
A study published in European Urology found that robotic prostatectomy was associated with higher healthcare costs compared to traditional surgical approaches, primarily due to increased surgical supply and operating room costs, as well as more extended hospital stays.
However, another study in the Journal of Urology demonstrated that robotic prostatectomy can be cost-effective considering the reduced length of hospital stay and lower complication rates.
These findings suggest that while robotic prostatectomy may have higher initial costs, the overall cost-effectiveness can be favorable when factoring in the potential long-term savings from reduced complications, shorter recovery times, and improved patient outcomes.
The Best Hospitals for Robotic Prostate Cancer Surgery
To ensure the best possible results from robotic prostatectomy, it's essential to select a medical center with a proven track record of success in this procedure.
Bookimed has ranked these medical centers as leaders in robotic surgery advancements:
Memorial Şişli Hospital in Turkey;
LIV Hospital Ulus in Turkey;
St. Zdislava Hospital in the Czech Republic;
Asklepios Hospital Barmbek in Germany;
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) in Israel.
These hospitals offer state-of-the-art robotic surgery facilities, experienced surgeons, and high success rates in robotic prostatectomy.
Memorial Şişli Hospital in Turkey
Memorial Şişli Hospital is a renowned multidisciplinary medical center in Istanbul, Turkey. Renowned for its high-quality care, it was the first hospital in Turkey and the 21st worldwide to receive accreditation from the Joint Commission International (JCI).
Professor Murat Binbay is a urology specialist with over 600 robotic surgeries for prostate, kidney, and bladder cancers. He has won awards from the European Association of Urology and was named a "master in urology" at the Davos Winter Forum.
- Dr. Murat Binbay has performed over 600 robotic urology-oncology surgeries.
- Memorial Şişli Hospital serves patients from 92 countries annually.
- Included Services: Consultation with a doctor, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 3 days stay in the hospital, 7 days stay in the hotel (not included).
- Technique: Robotic-assisted surgery.
Liv Hospital Ulus in Turkey
LIV Hospital Robotic Surgery Center has been recognized as a Center of Excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), 1 an award for outstanding quality, safety, outcomes, and patient care. It is the first clinic outside of the United States to receive certifications in the robotic surgery field.
The doctors use the Da Vinci robotic system for all kinds of solid tumors, including prostate cancer. The device allows for minimally invasive removal of formations through small punctures, about 1 cm in size.
- Dr. Kemal Raşa specializes in general surgery, surgical infections, breast cancer, and advanced minimally invasive surgery.
- Liv Hospital Ulus utilizes the da Vinci robot-assisted system for precise and minimally invasive surgeries.
- Included Services: Transfer airport-hotel-clinic-airport.
- Stay Info: 3 days stay in the hospital, 5 days stay in the hotel, accommodation not included.
- Method: Robotic Prostatectomy Surgery (Da Vinci Method).
St. Zdislava Hospital in the Czech Republic
St. Zdislava Hospital in the Czech Republic is a leading medical center specializing in prostate cancer surgery. Their robotic surgery center has extensive experience using the Da Vinci robot, with the experienced medical team having performed over 4,000 robotic surgeries.
One of the hospital's renowned specialists, Dr. Jan Dolezel, is a highly respected urologist with over 20 years of experience in robotic and laparoscopic surgery. His expertise and affiliation with medical societies worldwide contribute to St. Zdislava Hospital's reputation as a center of excellence in robotic prostatectomy.
- Jan Dolezel specialized in Da Vinci Robotic Surgery at the University of Strasbourg in France.
- Robotic Surgery Center in St. Zdislava Hospital has performed over 4,000 robotic operations.
- Included Services: Therapeutic drug monitoring, consultations with various specialists, complete blood count, language assistance, ultrasound, chest X-ray, medications, preoperative tests, general anesthesia, individual patient room, transfers.
- Stay Info: 7 days stay in the hospital, no hotel stay included.
- Technique: Robotic surgery.
Asklepios Hospital Barmbek in Germany
Asklepios Hospital Barmbek is a leading German medical center renowned for its expertise in urological care. The hospital's urology department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly skilled specialists, including Professor Andreas Gross. More than 80,000 patients come here for treatment annually.
Professor Andreas Gross is a renowned German urologist specializing in prostate and testicular cancers. He is committed to providing effective and minimally invasive treatments that preserve organ function whenever possible. Professor Gross has extensive experience in robotic surgery and other advanced techniques.
- Dr. Andreas Gross is recognized by leadingmedicineguide as one of Germany's top urology specialists.
- Asklepios Hospital Barmbek is the No. 1 clinic for foreign patients, serving 80,000 annually.
- Included Services: Consultation with a urologist, consumable materials, consultation with an anesthesiologist, follow-up examination, medications, preoperative tests, general anesthesia, general ward.
- Stay Info: 5 days stay in the hospital, 0 days stay in the hotel, accommodations not included in the price.
- Technique: Robotic-assisted prostatectomy.
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) in Israel
Sourasky Medical Center is a renowned medical institution in Israel that offers world-class healthcare services. The hospital's urology department specializes in robotic prostatectomy, a minimally invasive technique for prostate cancer surgery.
The hospital has achieved a remarkable 90% success rate in robotic prostatectomy procedures. This high success rate is a testament to the expertise of the medical team and the advanced technology used.
Professor Ofer Yossefovitz is a highly experienced laparoscopic urological surgeon focusing on oncological urology and robotic surgery. His expertise and skill contribute to the success of robotic prostatectomy procedures at Sourasky Medical Center.
- Dr. Yossefovitz Ofer completed a clinical fellowship in robotic procedures at Memorial Sloan Kettering.
- Sourasky Medical Center is ranked among the top 10 most popular clinics for medical tourists globally.
- Included Services: Consultation with an anesthesiologist, post-op medications, medications, preoperative tests, general anesthesia, consultation with a doctor, consultation with a urologist, patient room, transfer to the hospital.
- Stay Info: Accommodation in a patient room included; duration of stay in the country varies.
- Technique: Robotic surgery.
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Overview of Patient Outcomes
Robotic prostatectomy is generally recommended for patients with clinically localized prostate cancer.
Ideal candidates typically have:
📍PSA level below 10 ng/mL;
📍Gleason score of 7 or lower;
📍 Prostate size under 50 grams.
One study published in the Journal of Urology found that patients undergoing robotic prostatectomy had a 90% chance of being continent at 12 months postoperatively, and a 70% chance of achieving successful intercourse with or without the use of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors.
These outcomes highlight the potential of robotic prostatectomy in treating prostate cancer while preserving the quality of life for patients. Ongoing research examines the efficacy and comparative effectiveness of robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy compared to traditional surgical methods.
Financing Options for Da Vinci-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy
Before considering financing options for robotic prostatectomy, it's essential to review your health insurance plan. Many insurers cover prostate cancer treatments, including robotic surgery, but the extent of coverage can vary based on the specific provider and policy.
❗️If your insurance does not fully cover the cost of private robotic prostatectomy, there are other options available:
Medical Loans finance healthcare expenses, offering flexible repayment terms and competitive interest rates.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). If you have an HSA, the funds can be used for medical expenses, including robotic surgery, with the added benefit of tax savings.
Crowdfunding. Many people use online crowdfunding platforms to raise money for significant medical procedures.
Patient Assistance Programs. Some pharmaceutical companies and nonprofit organizations provide financial assistance to help cover the costs of medications related to robotic prostatectomy.
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Life After Robotic Surgery
Following robotic prostatectomy, patients can generally expect to spend 1 to 2 days in the hospital. Recovery time typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, during which patients may experience discomfort, fatigue, and urinary leakage.
Critical aspects of post-operative care include:
Pain Management. Pain medications will be prescribed to manage discomfort during the recovery period.
A urinary catheter may be temporarily inserted to help with drainage.
Wound Care. Proper incision site care is essential to prevent infection and promote healing.
Physical Therapy. Physical therapy may be recommended to aid in rehabilitation and improve strength and mobility.
Dietary Guidelines. A balanced diet can support the healing process and overall recovery.
Follow-Up Appointments. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are crucial for monitoring progress, addressing concerns, and ensuring a successful recovery.
Adhering to a post-operative care plan is crucial for a smooth recovery. It's important to follow your surgeon's instructions, take prescribed medications as directed, and attend all scheduled appointments.
How to Get the Best Price With Bookimed?
Bookimed is a leading medical tourism platform that connects patients with top-quality clinics worldwide. We offer comprehensive assistance throughout the process, from finding the right clinic to arranging travel and accommodation. Our team of medical experts can help you navigate the complexities of Da Vinci prostatectomy cost.
Key Benefits of Choosing Bookimed:
✅ Personalized Assistance. Our dedicated coordinators will provide customized support and guidance throughout your medical journey.
✅ Access to Top Clinics. We have a network of carefully selected clinics with experienced surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities.
✅ Transparent Pricing. We offer transparent pricing and upfront cost estimates to avoid any surprises.
✅ Hassle-Free Travel Arrangements. We can help you arrange your travel, accommodation, and transportation.
✅ Medical Translation Services. Our team can provide medical translation services if needed.
Want to explore your options? Contact Bookimed for personalized assistance from our experienced team, and start planning your treatment today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Recovery Time After Robotic Surgery?
Robotic prostatectomy offers a faster recovery time compared to traditional open surgery. Most patients can expect to return home within a few days after the procedure. The recovery process usually takes 2-3 weeks, during which patients may experience discomfort, fatigue, and urinary leakage.
Does Insurance Cover Robotic-Assisted Prostatectomy?
Many insurance companies, though not all, offer coverage for robotic surgeries, including robotic prostatectomy. Insurers that provide coverage typically classify it under "robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery." Generally, if a health plan includes coverage for minimally invasive procedures, robot-assisted surgeries are also covered.
Advancements in Robotic Surgery: A Comprehensive Overview of Current Utilizations and Upcoming Frontiers. PubMed Central (PMC). URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10784205/ (date of access: 04.10.2024).
Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Robotic-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy for Localized Prostate Cancer From the Brazilian Public System Perspective - PubMed. PubMed. URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34801887/ (date of access: 04.10.2024).
Expectations Before & After Robotic Prostatectomy. Urologist & Urologic Surgeon Washington, D.C. | Urologic Surgeons of Washington. URL: https://www.dcurology.net/procedures/robotic-prostatectomy/robotic-prostatectomy-expectations.php (date of access: 04.10.2024).
Novel nerve-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy with endopelvic fascia preservation and long-term outcomes for a single surgeon - Scientific Reports. Nature. URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-51598-3 (date of access: 04.10.2024).
Open Prostatectomy Surgery for Prostate Cancer | Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin. Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin. URL: https://www.froedtert.com/prostate-cancer/open-prostatectomy (date of access: 04.10.2024).
Prospective Multicenter Comparison of Open and Robotic Radical Prostatectomy: The PROST-QA/RP2 Consortium. PubMed Central (PMC). URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8840795/ (date of access: 04.10.2024).
Robotic Prostatectomy for Prostate Cancer. Prof. Dr. Tibet Erdoğru. URL: https://www.tibeterdogru.com/robotic-prostatectomy-for-prostate-cancer/ (date of access: 04.10.2024).
Yetman D. Your Guide to Robotic Prostatectomy. Healthline. URL: https://www.healthline.com/health/prostate-cancer/robotic-prostatectomy (date of access: 04.10.2024).