MelbourneROBOTICPROSTATECTOMY

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

The decision to have a PSA test for the early detection of prostate cancer needs to be made by each man individually, in consultation with his doctor. At present, population-wide PSA testing for prostate cancer is not recommended. Most authorities recommend that men have annual PSA testing and prostate examination between the ages of 50 and 70 years if they wish to be tested for prostate cancer. Beyond the age of 70, or if the man suffers from serious illnesses such as heart disease, then PSA testing is not recommended. If symptoms of prostatic disease are present, a PSA test is usually part of the medical assessment.

Robotic prostatectomy is one of many ways to treat prostate cancer. Alternatives to robotic prostatectomy include surgery by other approaches (open or laparoscopic), external radiotherapy and brachytherapy. The best choice of treatment is a complex decision that requires careful and detailed assessment by a urologist. Some of the factors that need to be considered include the amount, location and type of the cancer, the size of the prostate, concurrent or previous diseases & surgery of the urinary system or the bowels, the patients preferences, etc.

Robotic prostatectomy is usually more expensive than conventional open surgery because of a number of reasons:

• The cost of using the robot
• Longer operating time - usually means higher medical charges from the surgeon, anaesthetist & surgical assistant. However, Mr Sengupta endeavours to keep his charges to a very reasonable level.
• Special training undertaken by the surgeon

The actual cost varies depending on whether you have private health insurance, and the detail of your policy. Prior to surgery, you will be provided with a detailed written quote, so you will have a good idea of what your out-of-pocket costs will be (although there may be minor variation from this in the end). As for any surgical procedure, there are multiple components to the cost of robotic prostatectomy:

• Hospital costs - includes bed & theatre costs - usually covered by private health funds, but some policies have an excess to pay. Some health funds do not include the cost of disposable surgical supplies. If uninsured, this is the largest component of the additional expenses for you.
• Technology fee - payable for the use of the robot
• Surgeon's costs - covered in part by medicare and private health funds. Mr Sengupta's charges are very reasonable, and in line with Australian Medical Association schedules. Discounts are provided for pensioners and health care card holders. Please discuss in case of financial hardship, and special arrangements can be negotiated.
• Other medical costs - includes fees for the anaesthetist, surgical assistant, other medical specialists (if required), pathology and radiology (as required). Again, these are covered in part by Medicare and private health funds.

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