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Radical Retropubic Prostatectomy (RRP)

Catheter Care:

Your catheter is very important to allow healing of the bladder and urethra. You may use either leg bags or external bags. Please drain it regularly and before the bag gets too full. The tip of the penis may get sore from the catheter rubbing it. Use plain soap and water to wash this area daily or more often as needed. You may apply Neosporin or bacitracin ointment daily and as needed. It is not unusual to see discharge around at the tip of the penis. This is not an infection. It is mucous elaborated by the urethra in response to the catheter.

Wound:

The incision will be tender for the first week and the edges should NOT be pulled apart. If you have Steri-Strips, they can be left on for at least 14 days or until they start falling off. After this period, you may remove the Steri-Strips. If a NEW area of redness or swelling occurs, please contact us.

Diet:

You may return to your normal diet. Keep your urine flowing freely by drinking plenty of fluids during the day (8-10 glasses). The type of fluid is not as important as is the amount. Water is best, but juices, coffee, tea, soda are all acceptable. Alcohol should not be used while you are taking antibiotics or narcotic pain medications (i.e. – Vicodin, Percocent, Lortab).

Activity:

Your physical activity will need to be modifiedm, especially during the first two weeks after surgery (or as long as the catheter is in place). During this time, use the following guidelines:

• No lifting heavy objects (anything greater than 10 lbs.) for 4 weeks. No strenuous exercise for 4 weeks.
• No driving for about 14 days or until the catheter is removed.
• No severe straining during bowel movements - take a laxative if necessary.
• You may walk as much as you want. You may use stairs carefully.
• You may shower unless instructed not to do so.
• No driving or machinery while having pain and taking narcotic pain medications. Usually until Foley catheter is out. Limit long car rides.
• Avoid sitting upright for more than an hour at a time (such as working at a computer). This puts pressure on the perineum which is adjacent to the operative site.

Avoid Constipation:

You may take stool softeners (i.e. Colace, Pericolace, etc.) as needed. A bowel movement every other day is reasonable. Use a mild laxative if needed and call if you are having problems. (i.e. MOM 2-3 tbsp. Or 2 Dulcolax tabs). Patients sometimes develop diarrhea probably secondary to antibiotics. You may use Kaopectate as directed (avoid Imodium). If either persists, please call 410.266.8049.

Medication:

You should resume your pre-surgery medication(s) unless told not to. You may be discharged with Iron tablets to restore your blood count and this may cause constipation and will dark stools. You will also be discharged with some narcotic pain pills for post-operative pain control. Tylenol (acetominophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) may be used if the pain is not severe. Keep in mind that many narcotic pain medications also contain acetaminophen and you should take no more than 4000 mg of acetaminophen per day.

Hygiene:

You may shower 48 hours after surgery. Avoid baths, swimming pools and Jacuzzis (anything that submerges the incision) for at least 2 weeks or until the incision(s) are completely healed. Do not scrub the incision(s) or Steri-Strips. Just let the soap and water run over them and pat them dry.

Problems You Should Report To Us:

• Fevers over 101° Fahrenheit.
• Heavy bleeding or clots. You will notice blood in your catheter tubing and bag which is normal, but if it is excessive or if the catheter becomes plugged and stops draining, please call.
• Drug reactions (hives, rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
• CALL IMMEDIATELY IF THE CATHETER FALLS OUT OR STOPS DRAINING.

Follow-Up:

You will need a follow-up appointment in approximately 2 weeks from the date of surgery. If an appointment has not already been made for you, please call 410.266.8049 and schedule an appointment. Most people will not have good urinary control when the catheter is first removed. Come to the office with a small supply of adult pads that can be purchased at any drug store.