A prostatectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the prostate gland, which is located below the bladder and surrounds the urethra in men. This surgery is often performed to treat conditions like prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which can cause urinary problems.
There are different types of prostatectomy, including radical prostatectomy, where the entire gland is removed, and simple prostatectomy, which removes only the enlarged part. Recovery can vary, and patients may experience side effects such as changes in urinary function or sexual health, but many find relief from their symptoms after the procedure.