Post-Operative Instructions for Robotic Prostatectomy
1. Activity & Movement
Walking: Start walking the day after surgery to prevent blood clots and promote healing. Increase activity gradually.
Lifting: Avoid lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs (4.5 kg) for at least 4-6 weeks.
Driving: Do not drive while taking narcotic pain medication. Resume driving only when you can react quickly without discomfort (typically after catheter removal).
Stairs: You can use stairs but take them slowly.
Work: Most patients return to light work in 2-4 weeks, but physically demanding jobs may require 4-6 weeks off.

2. Catheter Care (Foley Catheter)
The catheter stays in place for 7-14 days after surgery to allow healing.
Secure the catheter properly to prevent pulling.
Keep the drainage bag below bladder level to prevent urine backflow.
Expect some pink-tinged urine, but large blood clots or bright red bleeding should be reported.

3. Pain Management
You may have mild to moderate pain. Use prescribed pain medications as needed.
Tylenol (Acetaminophen) or Ibuprofen may be used for mild pain.
Walking helps relieve gas pain from surgery.

4. Diet & Hydration
Start with clear liquids and progress to regular food as tolerated.
Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, as they may irritate the bladder.
Prevent constipation: Eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) and take a stool softener (e.g., Colace) if needed.

5. Wound Care
Incisions: Keep them clean and dry.
Showers: Allowed after 24  hours, but avoid soaking in bathtubs, pools, or hot tubs for 4 weeks.
Dressings: Most incisions are covered with Dermabond (skin glue) and don’t need special care.

6. Urinary Control & Recovery
Expect some urinary leakage after catheter removal, improving over time.
Start pelvic floor (Kegel) exercises after catheter removal to strengthen bladder control.

7. Sexual Function & Erections
Erectile function recovery varies; nerve-sparing surgery improves chances.
Oral medications (Cialis) will be given daily to recooperate erections. 
Ejaculation will no longer occur (dry orgasms), but sensation should remain.

8. Warning Signs – Call Your Doctor If:
🚨 Fever over 101°F (38.3°C)
🚨 Heavy bleeding or large clots in urine
🚨 Severe pain not relieved by medication
🚨 No urine output or catheter blockage
🚨 Pus or worsening redness around incisions

9. Follow-Up Appointments
The first follow-up is typically 7-10 days post-op for catheter removal.
PSA blood tests will be scheduled to monitor for cancer recurrence.