Definition

Surgery to remove the entire prostate and some of the tissue around it, including the seminal vesicles (a gland that helps make semen). Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed. During an open radical prostatectomy, an incision (cut) is made in the wall of the lower abdomen or in the perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus). An attempt is made to protect the nerves that control penile erection and the bladder from damage.