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VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center is one of only two locations in Virginia performing single-port robotic-assisted surgeries for prostate cancer patients. This innovative and less invasive method provides another advanced and effective option for the treatment of the second leading cause of cancer death in men in the United States.

Single-port robotic-assisted surgery includes a single incision measuring less than two inches, offering patients the potential for faster recovery, fewer complications and reduced risk of damage to other internal organs.

Alex Kenigsberg, M.D. “We’re always searching for new ways to refine surgical procedures, reduce pain and improve outcomes. Single-port robotic surgery is another medical innovation in pursuit of that goal,” said Alex Kenigsberg, M.D., the director of urologic oncology at Massey. “This is cutting edge in all the big cities around the country and cancer centers around the world, and we’re providing this care in Richmond, Virginia.”

What is single-port robotic-assisted surgery?

Used to treat localized prostate cancer, a radical prostatectomy is the surgical removal of the prostate gland. Single-port robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy provides unique visualization and precision. Through the insertion of a small camera and three flexible instruments, the advanced software enables surgeons to operate with enhanced control within the most confined spaces in the body. Compared to multi-port prostatectomy, this pioneering alternative is performed outside of the abdominal cavity, reducing the likelihood of harm to the intestines or other critical organs.

This treatment option is particularly advantageous for patients with significant scar tissue in their bellies because surgeons can avoid creating unnecessary incisions into their abdomens.

Treatment time and recovery

On average, the outpatient procedure takes about three hours, with some variability depending on each individual patient. Typically, patients return home on the day of the surgery and use a urinary catheter for about one week.

Most patients can resume normal activities within days but should avoid strenuous physical exertion or driving until recommended by their provider.

Early data supports emerging evidence that, compared to traditional or multi-port robotic surgery, single-port robotic surgery for prostate cancer improves functional outcomes related to erectile function and bladder and bowel control following a radical prostatectomy.

Offering an improved and less invasive option for patients

Kenigsberg does not expect this to overhaul the standard of care for prostate cancer but to instead serve as a premier addition to the toolkit for treating the disease.

“The multi-port surgery is still a completely safe and viable option. This just offers an improved and effective procedure in a slightly less invasive way,” Kenigsberg said. “I think it’s going to become a much more popular option over time.”

Massey also performs this surgery for kidney and colorectal tumors, offering a less painful approach for these patients without harming other organs or tissue in the abdomen. VCU Medical Center was recently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a 2026-2027 High-Performing Hospital for prostate cancer surgery and colon cancer surgery.

Unrelated to cancer, VCU Health also offers single-port robotic-assisted surgery through a simple prostatectomy for men with severely enlarged prostates, and the Hume-Lee Transplant Center completed the first kidney transplant at VCU Health in March using this technology. Since then, Hume-Lee has expanded its use of single-port robotic surgery for many of their living kidney donor surgeries, as well.

Patients are encouraged to consult with their care team to determine if single-port robotic-assisted surgery is an effective treatment option for them.

Learn more about prostate cancer treatment options at VCU Massey.

Written by: Blake Belden