Table of Contents

Chapter 2: Initial Treatment: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Each Option

iv. The Importance of Surgical Skill

In every area of life, we recognize that some people are simply better at performing some jobs than others, whether due to experience or natural talent. The same is true for doctors and surgeons. Yes, there are established techniques and standards that any competent surgeon should be able to follow. And there’s absolutely no guarantee that even if you were to go to the best surgeon in the world who has performed hundreds of operations, you’ll fare any better than if you went to someone who’s performed just a handful. Prostatectomy, like many surgical procedures, is very delicate work, and the difference between a good surgeon and a great surgeon can affect outcomes. At a minimum, you should ensure that the surgeon you choose is someone in whom you have confidence, and someone who has enough experience to not only perform the operation, but to also make an informed clinical judgment and change course should the need arise.