Frequently Asked Questions About Prostate Cancer & Urologic Care in New York, NY
Facing a prostate, bladder, or kidney concern raises a lot of questions. At Prostate Cancer 911, Dr. David B. Samadi believes informed patients make the best decisions. Below are answers to the questions we hear most about screening, PSA results, robotic surgery, recovery, and scheduling at our Midtown Manhattan office. If you don’t see your question here, call (212) 365-5000.
General FAQs
What does Prostate Cancer 911 treat?
Prostate Cancer 911 is the Midtown Manhattan practice of Dr. David B. Samadi, a urologic oncologist and robotic surgeon. We diagnose and treat prostate cancer, bladder cancer, kidney cancer, elevated PSA, enlarged prostate (BPH), urinary issues, and erectile dysfunction.
What is prostate cancer?
Prostate cancer develops when cells in the prostate, a walnut-sized gland below the bladder that surrounds the urethra, begin growing out of control. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in American men after skin cancer. When it is found early, while still confined to the prostate, it is highly treatable. Learn more on our prostate cancer symptoms, diagnosis and treatment page.
When should I start prostate cancer screening?
Most men should begin discussing screening with a urologist around age 50. Men at higher risk, including African American men and men with a father or brother who had prostate cancer, should start the conversation at 45 or earlier. Screening usually involves a PSA blood test and may include a digital rectal exam. See our prostate screening FAQs for more detail.
What does an elevated PSA level mean?
An elevated PSA does not automatically mean cancer. PSA can rise because of an enlarged prostate, prostatitis, recent ejaculation, or vigorous exercise. Dr. Samadi looks at your PSA trend, prostate size, and risk factors, and may recommend an MRI or MRI fusion biopsy to find out what is causing the increase. Visit our elevated PSA page to learn more.
What is an MRI fusion biopsy?
An MRI fusion biopsy overlays detailed MRI images onto real-time ultrasound so suspicious areas of the prostate can be targeted precisely. Compared with a standard random biopsy, it helps detect clinically significant cancers more accurately and can reduce unnecessary sampling.
What treatment options are available for prostate cancer?
Options depend on the cancer’s stage, grade, and your overall health. They include active surveillance, robotic radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and focal therapies. Dr. Samadi reviews every option with you so you can make an informed choice. Our prostate cancer treatments and active surveillance FAQs pages explain each approach.
What is robotic prostatectomy?
Robotic prostatectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to remove the prostate using the da Vinci robotic system. The surgeon controls every movement from a console with a magnified 3D, high-definition view, allowing precise dissection through small incisions. The robot never operates on its own. Learn more on our robotic surgery page.
What is SMART Surgery?
SMART stands for Samadi Modified Advanced Robotic Technique, a refined approach to robotic prostatectomy developed by Dr. Samadi. It is designed around three goals, often called the trifecta: complete cancer removal, preservation of urinary continence, and preservation of sexual function. Read more about the SMART Surgery technique and the prostate cancer treatment trifecta.
Am I a good candidate for robotic prostate surgery?
Men with cancer that is confined to the prostate and who are healthy enough for surgery are often good candidates. Dr. Samadi reviews your PSA, biopsy results, imaging, age, and overall health during a consultation to determine whether surgery or another treatment is the best fit. Request an appointment to have your case reviewed.
How long is recovery after robotic prostatectomy?
Most patients go home after a short hospital stay and wear a urinary catheter for about one to two weeks. Many men return to desk work within a few weeks, while heavy lifting is restricted for longer. You will receive detailed robotic prostatectomy surgical instructions before and after your procedure.
Will I have urinary leakage after prostate surgery?
Some temporary leakage is common after prostate removal, and most men regain bladder control over the following weeks to months. Careful preservation of the urinary sphincter and pelvic floor exercises both play a role. Learn more about continence after prostate cancer surgery.
Can I maintain sexual function after prostate cancer treatment?
Nerve-sparing surgical techniques are designed to protect the nerves responsible for erections. Recovery of sexual function can take months, and treatments are available to help along the way. Read our guide to sex after prostate surgery and our erectile dysfunction treatment page.
Is an enlarged prostate the same as prostate cancer?
No. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that becomes common as men age. It can cause a weak stream, frequent urination, and nighttime trips to the bathroom. Treatments range from medication to minimally invasive procedures such as UroLift, GreenLight Laser PVP, and TURP. Visit our enlarged prostate page.
What are the warning signs of bladder cancer?
The most common sign is blood in the urine, which may be visible or found only on a urine test. Other symptoms include frequent or painful urination and urgency. Smoking is the biggest risk factor. Any blood in the urine should be evaluated by a urologist. Learn more about bladder cancer treatment and robotic cystectomy.
Do you treat kidney cancer?
Yes. Dr. Samadi evaluates and treats kidney tumors, including minimally invasive robotic options when surgery is recommended. Learn more on our kidney cancer and bladder and kidney cancers pages.
Can I get a second opinion on my prostate cancer diagnosis?
Yes. Many men come to Dr. Samadi for a second opinion after a biopsy or treatment recommendation elsewhere. Bring your pathology report, PSA history, and any imaging to your visit. Patients traveling from outside the U.S. can learn about international patient care.
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Bring a photo ID, insurance information, a list of current medications, recent PSA results, biopsy pathology reports, and any MRI or CT imaging on disc or through a portal link. Having these ready helps Dr. Samadi build your treatment plan sooner. You can request an appointment online.
Where is Prostate Cancer 911 located and how do I schedule?
Our office is at 485 Madison Ave, 21st Floor, in Midtown Manhattan, New York, NY . Call (212) 365-5000 or request an appointment online. You can also learn why patients choose us.
Still Have Questions? Talk to Dr. Samadi
Every diagnosis is different, and the right answer for you depends on your PSA history, imaging, pathology, and personal goals. Schedule a consultation at Prostate Cancer 911 to get clear, personalized guidance from one of New York’s most experienced robotic prostate surgeons. Explore our full list of services or call (212) 365-5000 today.