Facing a prostate cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions, and getting clear, honest answers, can turn anxiety into clarity. Below you’ll find a practical checklist to guide your consultation and help you make informed decisions.
Each question is followed by a brief explanation of what you might expect in response, so you feel more prepared to understand and discuss your options with confidence. Jot down the questions that matter to you, and remember: there are no bad questions, only the ones you don’t ask.
Questions to ask when diagnosed with prostate cancer
1. What stage and grade is my cancer, and has it spread?
A private clinic will typically offer a multiparametric MRI and, when indicated, a PSMA PET‑CT scan, both interpreted by specialist uro‑radiologists. These images, plus your biopsy’s Gleason/ISUP score, help determine whether the tumour is still localised or beginning to spread. If you already have existing scans, many clinics will re‑report them for the clearest assessment possible.
2. What is my PSA level and what does it mean for my risk?
Your prostate‑specific antigen (PSA) level acts like a speedometer: the higher, or faster‑rising, the number, the more active the cancer may be. Some private clinics offer same-day PSA testing and results, making it easier to monitor changes over time and make timely decisions.
3. Do I need any additional scans or a targeted biopsy before deciding on treatment?
Many men benefit from a transperineal, MRI‑fusion biopsy. This technique maps the tumour in three dimensions, helping the surgeon plan more precise, nerve-sparing treatment.
4. How quickly is my cancer likely to grow?
Low‑volume, low‑grade tumours sometimes grow so slowly that active surveillance, monitored by regular MRI and quarterly PSA tests, can offer cancer control comparable to treatment. Higher‑risk cancers often require definitive therapy within a few weeks.
5. Am I a candidate for active surveillance?
If your cancer is Gleason 3 + 3, with a PSA level under 10 ng/ml and confined to the prostate, active surveillance may be the safest option. Your consultant should explain your individual risk profile and when, if ever, they would recommend moving to treatment.
Questions about prostate cancer treatment options
1. How do robotic radical surgery and radiotherapy compare for my situation?
Both treatments are highly effective, with cure rates above 95% at 10 years. Surgery removes the prostate entirely, leading to an undetectable PSA, while radiotherapy treats the cancer in place over time, often alongside hormone therapy. Ask your consultant which option is best for you, based on your overall health, cancer stage, and personal priorities.
2. Would robot‑assisted radical prostatectomy improve my outcomes?
Robot-assisted surgery allows for enhanced precision by magnifying the surgical field and filtering out natural hand tremor. This can help the surgeon remove the prostate through small keyhole incisions while aiming to preserve the nerves that control erections and continence. International studies show that robotic surgery is associated with faster recovery, less blood loss, and shorter hospital stays compared to traditional open surgery.
3. What is the Single Port Prostatectomy technique, and am I suitable?
Single Port (SP) surgery uses a single 4 cm incision near the navel. Benefits can include less post‑operative discomfort and minimal visible scarring. Suitability depends on factors like prostate size and past surgery. Your consultant will usually review your MRI to help determine if it’s the right option for you.
4. What are my realistic chances of regaining urinary continence and erectile function?
With techniques such as Retzius-sparing and NeuroSAFE, many prostate cancer centres report that around 96% of men are pad-free within three months, and approximately 82% regain erections firm enough for intercourse within a year — assuming good pre-operative function. Recovery can be supported by early pelvic-floor physiotherapy and starting PDE‑5 inhibitor medication soon after surgery.
Questions to ask your prostate cancer surgeon
1. How many radical prostatectomies have you performed and what are your personal results?
When choosing a surgeon, ask how many robotic prostatectomies they’ve performed – numerous studies have shown a clear link between surgical experience and patient outcomes. Some specialists have carried out thousands of these procedures. It’s also important to ask about personal outcomes, including their positive surgical margin rate, blood transfusion rate, and how often they’ve needed to convert to open surgery.
2. Will you use the NeuroSAFE frozen‑section technique?
Some centres use the NeuroSAFE technique for intermediate‑ and high‑risk tumours. During surgery, a pathologist provides a margin report within 20 minutes, helping the surgeon decide whether to remove additional tissue only if cancer is close to the nerves — supporting nerve preservation and improving cancer control wherever safely possible.
3. What intra‑operative technology will you use to protect my nerves and sphincter?
Robotic surgery uses 3D magnified vision to enhance visibility during surgery. This helps identify blood vessels and critical structures in real time, supporting nerve and sphincter preservation.
4. If problems arise later, how will they be handled?
Ask what processes are in place if queries arise or complications occur after surgery. Some private clinics offer direct access to your care team and streamlined pathways for urgent follow-up or re‑admission. It’s important to understand who to contact and how quickly issues would be addressed.
Questions about recovery, support, and the clinic
1. How soon can I have surgery once I decide?
In private clinics, surgery can often be scheduled within two to three weeks, especially helpful if you are travelling from overseas or wish to avoid NHS waiting times. Availability may vary depending on the surgeon and hospital.
2. What will my hospital stay look like after surgery?
Most men are up and walking within hours of surgery. Patients are out of bed and walking around the ward the next morning, and are typically discharged the following day with a catheter in place. You should be mobile and able to manage most basic activities on discharge.
3. What support will I have for rehab and follow‑up?
Ask what kind of follow-up schedule and recovery support the clinic provides. PSA levels are usually checked at regular intervals – typically at ten weeks, then every three months during the first year. Some clinics offer access to specialist nurses and pelvic-floor physiotherapy to support physical recovery.
4. Will I need additional treatment later?
Most men with organ-confined prostate cancer do not require further treatment after surgery. However, if cancer returns, salvage radiotherapy or hormone therapy may be recommended. Ask your care team to explain your individual risk based on the pathology results and how any future treatment would be managed.
5. How can I prepare physically and mentally?
A short prehabilitation programme, including walking, pelvic-floor exercises, weight loss if indicated and stopping smoking, can support a smoother recovery. Ask if the clinic also offers consultations with specialist nurses to help you prepare optimally for surgery.
Getting the most from your consultation
- Write down every query, big or small, in a notebook and bring a partner or friend for support.
- Ask for copies of your scans and blood test reports, especially if you may seek a second opinion.
- Visit trusted sources such as Cancer Research UK and the NHS for clear, balanced information.
Your Next Step
Knowing the right questions is the first step; choosing the right team is the next. At Santis Health, robotic prostatectomy is performed by Professor Christopher Eden, one of Europe’s most experienced surgeons, with over 4,100 procedures to date.
Our approach combines advanced techniques such as the da Vinci robotic surgery systems, Single Port surgery, and the NeuroSAFE nerve-sparing method with personalised after-care focused on continence and sexual function recovery.
If you’re considering surgery or want a second opinion, book a private consultation with Professor Eden and take the next step in your prostate cancer journey with confidence.
