When Al Simoens’ PSA (prostate-specific antigen) levels began to rise, he knew something wasn’t right. With his father having passed away from prostate cancer, Al understood the seriousness of the situation. A biopsy confirmed early-stage prostate cancer, and his care team at Health Sciences Centre (HSC) recommended surgery.
“I was 67 and otherwise in great health,” says Al. “But I had seen what happened to my dad and knew what could lie ahead for me. With very little hesitation, I opted for surgery.”
While Al was preparing for traditional open surgery, a new technology arrived at HSC: the da Vinci Xi surgical robot, funded by donors through the HSC Foundation’s Operation Excellence campaign. In November 2024, Al became one of the first urology patients in Manitoba to receive robotic surgery.
“The machine is impressive,” Al recalls. The robot uses four arms to insert instruments through very small incisions, while the surgeon controls them from a console. Compared with open surgery, the smaller incisions meant a shorter, less painful recovery and a lower risk of infection.
Al’s procedure lasted about four and a half hours. He stayed in hospital for two nights, though many robotic surgery patients go home after just one. What surprised him most was how little pain he experienced.
“The worst pain was actually in my collarbone, and even that wasn’t too bad. Regular Tylenol easily took care of it.”
Within three months, Al had fully regained bladder control—an important milestone following prostate surgery.
“A lot of men experience long-term incontinence after prostate surgery,” he explains. “Fortunately, the incidence is lower with robotic surgery. I was fully continent—and confident—within three months.”
Nearly a year later, Al is back to his usual activities, including golfing and working out at the gym. He’s spending time with family and enjoying his “retirement job” as a school bus driver.
“I’m feeling great, and I’m feeling grateful,” he says. “I appreciate the brilliance of Drs. Nayak and Saranchuk and all of the health care personnel who took care of me. And I’m grateful for the donors who made robotic surgery possible here in Manitoba.”
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