I had DaVinci surgery with Dr Frank @ Mayo Clinic on Jan 18. Surgery took longer than expected, but believe cancer to be confined to the gland, with clean margins, lymph nodes, seminal vesicles. Both nerve bundles spared intact as well as both urinary sphincters. All went as hoped, with exception of upgrade in gleason score to 3+4 and stage to pT2C. Pain was minimal, was out of bed walking next morning, and discharged that afternoon. Foley catheter was removed at 1 wk. Following catheter removal, I was not mentally prepared for the level of incontinence. I was the eternal fountain for the first six hours, then some improvement overnight. With bathroom runs about every 2-2 1/2 hrs, I am now mostly dry overnight and while sitting in recliner, but up and active is another story. Dr. Frank gave us a regimen of a daily 5mg dose of Cialis, beginning the day after the catheter came out, to be continued for 12 wks. We are to attempt intercourse @ 4 wks post-surgery, and some sort of sexual activity 3 times per wk after that, regardless of results. If erections aren't achieved after 4 wks, we are to fill script for a pump to be used 3 times /wk. Follow up appointment in 3mo. w/ PSA test. I appreciated having a Dr. with a plan for surgery, recovery, and rehab in a step by step format. I appreciated his confidence in that plan, while understanding things don't always go according to plans. I don't believe we were oversold on any aspect of treatment.
After my diagnosis, I found the most pertinant, real world advice and experience, on this board. I want to thank all who contribute for sharing your story and experience. Your counsel and experience led us in the treatment decisions we had to make. We have peace of mind knowing we have sought and received the best care available to us, and that the results are out of our hands. Thank you guys for caring enough to share this part of your lives with those who come face to face with this thing. I hope my story above can encourage those who may find themselves where I was 4-5 mo ago, without a clue of where to start the fight. Looking forward to many more miles on the Harley with my wife, and to knowing all my 'yet to be born' grandchildren.