I have a biology background and took microbiology so know that sterilization is important. Yes, you should clean the bags, I used a bleach solution, and wipe down any surfaces like end of the tubes before connecting. And keep the tube clean. Others here spoke of lubricating the penis tip and some use antibiotic ointment like Neosporin. My doctor said Vaseline is fine. Even in spite of all that, I still got a UTI which I understand happens in 2-3% of cases. The whole procedure and recovery is quite invasive allowing for bacteria to find their way in. The UTI caused some pain and spasms for a few days but antibiotics helped. Just having the Foley catheter in your bladder, along with the trauma to the entire area, upsets the whole system for a while. Everyone recovers differently. I'm glad for time off and the ability to work from home. I'm a 2.5 weeks post surgery and today was a good day - stayed completely dry! Even had a few hints at natural erections without starting Viagra yet. But it takes work to do kegels, stay clean, eat right, keep bowels regular (very important given location of rectum - don't strain).

Anyone contemplating this surgery should have a complete understanding about what's going to happen and how to prepare and recover. I'm glad to have the cancer out. My pathology came back worse than biopsy and my dad was diagnosed and treated at age 58. It was a good decision for me.