robotic/lap. recomendations, please.

BobinChiTown

I was diagnosed in late July. After much research I've decided my best alternative is surgery: a Gleason of 8, at least 3 positive sites on the moderately enlarged prostate, PSA of 4.5 and 54 years young.

I'm inclined to got w/the robotic lap. but have several questions to resolve: how much experience should a Dr. have to be considered "competent" w/this technique? Can they get a good enough section of the lymph nodes for post op. biopsy? If I select and "out of town" Dr. how (w/whom) do I handle f/u visits?

W/enough constructive input I hope to make a final decision this week and have the surgery w/in a month.

Any help or advise is appreciated.

Thanks!

izn60

try this URL
http://www.forbes.com/healthcare/2005/07/26/surgery-prostate-robots-cz_sk_0727surgeryside1.html
Have you had any other proceedures in this area? If you have such as colon surgery you should have a CT scan w & w/o contrast.
Regarding how much experience - it's a too new of a proceedure - the surgeon should have experience with open surgery in case he runs into trouble. Also
ask for references.