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Robot-Assisted Surgery FAQ
A. We utilize the newest model robot, the daVinci S manufactured by Intuitive Surgical. This second generation surgical system offers the doctor a wider viewing field displayed in high definition. Improvements to the surgical instruments and their controls allow the physician to operate with more ease than ever before.
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A. Definitely. Call Hortencia in the surgery scheduling department at (210) 614-4544 ext. 1018, and she will provide you with the names and contact information of patients who are willing to talk about their experience with robotic prostatectomy.
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A. Most insurance companies cover the FDA approved robotic prostatectomy procedure, and in the majority of cases, the cost to the patient is the same as traditional prostate surgery. For assistance verifying your specific insurance benefits or information for cash paying patients, call our Billing and Insurance department at (210) 731-2050 ext. 1016.
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A. Men whose disease is encapsulated in the prostate (has not spread) are likely candidates for robotic prostate surgery. Patients who have had prior radiation treatment (Brachytherapy or external beam) for prostate cancer are not candidates for the robotic approach.
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A. Barring unusual circumstances, most surgeries are completed in about 1.5 hours. Additional time is needed for patient positioning, anesthesia, and recovery. The evening after surgery, most patients are walking or sitting comfortably in a chair in their hospital room.
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A. Over 85% of patients leave the hospital within one day of their surgery.
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A. Many patients can return to desk work in 7-10 days. Due to the low number of complications, long-term medical leave is unnecessary in most cases.
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A. Dr. Naveen Kella performs 6-9 robotic cases each week, making him one of the top fifteen most experienced robotic surgeons in the nation. Dr. Kella is recognized in the medical community for his expertise and is called on to train surgeons from across the nation. He frequently attends robotic surgery meetings and has observed some of the world’s best surgeons perform the procedure. In addition, Dr. Kella completed a year-long robotics and oncology fellowship program at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston where he worked with leading experts in the clinical research and surgical treatment of prostate cancer.
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A. All of our experience and the latest studies in the literature strongly support the usage of robotics to improve the outcomes in patients. Extremely low blood loss, smaller incisions, and precise, magnified movements all mean a faster, better recovery.
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A. Physical distance should not be a barrier to receiving the best medical care available. Dr. Naveen Kella has treated numerous patients from outside San Antonio and even outside the United States. Our team is happy to help you make accommodations to fit your lifestyle and budget.
Out-of-town patients should expect to stay in San Antonio for a total of 8 days. Typically, the schedule is as follows:
- Prior to Arrival: Review and comply with list of medications patients must stop taking prior to surgery
- Thursday: Meet with Dr. Kella at his office; undergo lab tests (if necessary); begin bowel prep.
- Friday: Undergo surgeryhysical distance should not be a barrier to receiving the best medical care
- Saturday Evening or Sunday Morning: Barring any complications, you will be discharged from the hospital
- Following Thursday: Meet with Dr. Kella again at his office. At this time, he will remove the urinary catheter and review the pathology report with you. We recommend you stay in San Antonio overnight in case you have difficulty emptying your bladder after the catheter is removed.
- Follow-up Care: You are welcome to return to San Antonio for routine PSAs and ongoing follow-up care, or you may see your hometown urologist.
For more information, view the out-of-town patients section of our Patient Guide, or call us toll free at (800) 798-5111.
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A. The diagram shows the dime-sized incisions of the robotic procedure. Four incisions are for the robot's "arms," and the fifth is for the camera probe. This incision is made slightly larger than the others so that the urologist can extract the prostate specimen at the end of the procedure. 
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A. The cure rates for both procedures are very high; however, because of its precision, the completeness of cancer removal may be higher with robotics. Our data shows favorable results, even when compared to those of proficient "open" surgeons. Also, the return of bladder control and preservation of erectile function may be better with the robotic approach.
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A. Robotic prostatectomy requires only dime-sized incisions, and patients usually recover within 2-3 weeks, whereas traditional prostate surgery requires a 6-8 inch incision, and recovery may take a month or longer.
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Pre-Surgery Questions
A. Many hotels and motels in all price ranges are located within a two or three miles of our clinic and the hospital. For a list of some of these facilities, visit the Customer Service section of www.urologysanantonio.com or contact Joyce Reyna in the business office at (800) 798-5111.
When you call to make your reservation, be sure to inquire about medical discounts and complimentary transportation to and from the airport and medical facilities.
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A. One of the many benefits of robotic surgery is minimal blood loss. Therefore, it is not necessary to have your blood available for transfusion.
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A. Yes! In the weeks before surgery, try to increase your exercise and improve your diet as much as possible. This can greatly improve the speed of your recovery after surgery. Losing a few pounds may also help your surgeon perform your operation more smoothly.
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A. Our office will mail you a list of medications that you must stop taking prior to your surgery. Please review the list and follow the instructions indicating when to discontinue and restart your medications.
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A. No. The procedure will allow you the potential for erections, but your ejaculations will be dry.
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Post-Surgery Questions
A. Some patients report feeling bloated for the first 24-36 hours after surgery. For this reason, wearing pants with elastic waists may be more conformable. While in the hospital, you may have liquids and soft solid foods and a regular lunch on the afternoon after your procedure. Broccoli and other gas-producing foods should be avoided until the bloating has subsided. Also, avoid steaks and other red meets until you are able to pass gas from your rectum.
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