Robotic Prostatectomy (prostate removal): All you need to know

By Mr Wissam Abou-Chedid
Urology

Mr Wissam Abou-Chedid earned his medical degree from the University of Saint Joseph in Beirut before completing his urology specialist training at Henry Mondor University Hospital in Paris. He further honed his skills through fellowships in minimally invasive and robotic surgery at Saint Augustin Clinic in Bordeaux and the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust in Guildford.

He was then appointed as a consultant urological surgeon at the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust in February 2022. His robust academic background, including multiple postgraduate diplomas in Andrology, Laparoscopic surgery, urodynamics and pelviperineology, a master's degree in biomedical sciences and a fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, provides a solid foundation for his work.

Mr Wissam Abou-Chedid has distinguished himself as a leader in the field, particularly in robotic-assisted surgery and minimally invasive procedures for prostate cancer and benign prostatic enlargement. His exceptional track record is marked by his significant contribution to the volume of surgeries performed, with over 400 cases completed in the last two years alone, making him one of the highest-volume consultants for robotic prostate surgery in the UK during that period.

Beyond sheer volume, Mr Abou-Chedid's expertise extends to specialised techniques, notably in retzius sparing prostatectomy, where he is recognised as one of the highest-volume surgeons in Europe. This recognition underscores his proficiency in advanced surgical methods that prioritize patient outcomes and quality of life. In addition to his clinical practice, Mr Abou-Chedid serves as a robotic and minimal invasive urological surgery trainer at IRCAD, a renowned international center for research and training in minimally invasive surgery.

Here, he shares his extensive knowledge and skills with surgeons from around the world, emphasizing the importance of adopting the latest technologies and techniques to achieve optimal patient outcomes. Mr Abou-Chedid's commitment to innovation is evident in his pioneering work, such as day case robotic prostatectomy and the concept of self-removal of catheters post-prostatectomy. These groundbreaking advancements not only demonstrate his dedication to pushing the frontiers of urological surgery but also highlight his focus on improving patient recovery and quality of life.

Mr Wissam Abou-Chedid is not only dedicated to advancing prostate cancer care but also continually seeks new and modern techniques for the treatment of benign enlargement of the prostate, aiming to improve the quality of life for men experiencing urinary symptoms. Recognizing the importance of staying at the forefront of medical technology, he has championed the use of innovative treatments such as Rezum, Echolaser, Optilume, and Exime, among other cutting-edge technologies. By integrating these advanced methods into his practice, Mr. Abou-Chedid ensures that his patients have access to the most effective and minimally invasive treatments available.

His proactive approach to embracing new technologies underscores his commitment to delivering the highest standard of care and improving outcomes for men with urological conditions. Outside of his professional pursuits, Mr. Abou-Chedid is deeply involved in community outreach programs aimed at raising awareness about prostate cancer screening and prevention. Through these initiatives, he seeks to empower individuals to take charge of their health and advocate for early detection and intervention.

Mr Abou-Chedid's commitment to these causes extends to his active involvement with charities such as Prostate Cancer UK and The Prostate Project. He serves as a Prostate Cancer UK National Clinical Champion, leveraging his expertise to support the organization's mission of providing vital services, raising awareness, and funding research.

Overall assessment of their patients