Why does Dr. Kella offer Nerve Monitoring with Robotic Prostate Surgery?
Preservation of nerves during robotic prostatectomy is important for the preservation of urinary and sexual function. Surgeon perception has been shown to be a poor predictor of nerve location during surgery, especially for less experienced surgeons.
Nerve monitoring with a system such as ProPep can identify nerves such as the superficial portion of the perineal branch of the pudendal nerve. This nerve innervates the levator ani and the external urinary sphincter. These muscles are key for preserving urinary function. The location can vary, making nerve monitoring and surgeon experience very helpful for improving patient outcomes.