Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)

Overview  

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure designed to remove part of the prostate gland. The prostate is a male reproductive organ that encircles the urethra, the tube responsible for urine expulsion. An enlarged prostate can lead to urinary obstruction.

During a TURP procedure, a thin instrument is inserted through the urethra by your doctor. This instrument utilizes an electric current or laser to excise excess prostate tissue. Because the tool is introduced through the urethra, there is no need for external incisions.  

Reasons for undergoing the procedure  

TURP is used to treat BPH, or benign prostatic enlargement/hyperplasia, which is characterized by an enlarged prostate. BPH is not cancer, and as individuals age, it affects a large number of men and people AMAB.

Urinary difficulties may arise from your prostate pressing on your urethra when you have BPH. BPH symptoms include:  

• Damage to the kidneys (in extreme cases).  
• Feeling the need to go potty every one to two hours.  
• Nocturia, or the frequent nighttime awakenings for urination.  
• The inability to completely empty your bladder, also known as urinary retention.  
• Having an overwhelming urge to urinate and not being able to wait.  
• An uncontrollably starting and stopping urine stream.  
• A weak urine stream or urine that trickles.  

Risks   

The following are potential TURP adverse effects or complications:  

• Urinary incontinence.  
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs).  
• Blood in your urine (hematuria).  
• Retrograde ejaculation.  
• Erectile dysfunction.  

Before the procedure  

Although TURP does not involve any incisions, it does require either spinal or general anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss the most suitable anesthetic option for you.

To prepare for anesthesia, you may need to refrain from eating and drinking for several hours before your surgery. It’s essential to inform your doctor about all medications and vitamins you are taking, including blood thinners. Be sure to ask your doctor if you should discontinue any of these medications prior to your surgery.  

During the procedure  

TURP is carried out by your doctor in an Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) or an operating room of a hospital. Usually, the process takes less than ninety minutes. Anesthesia will be administered to you to prevent pain.

While doing your treatment, your doctor:  

• Inserts a thin, camera-equipped instrument called a rectoscope into your urethra.  
• Examines your prostate and uses an electrical current or laser to eliminate any extra tissue.  
• Uses liquid to temporarily empty your bladder of extra tissue.  
• Empties any extra tissue from your bladder through your urethra.  
• Removes the rectoscope.  

After the procedure  

After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery area. Some patients may stay in the hospital for one to two days following TURP, while others might be discharged on the same day.  

During your hospital stay, a catheter—a thin, flexible tube—will be placed in your urethra to ensure smooth urine flow. Typically, your doctor will remove the catheter before you are discharged from the hospital.  

Outcome 

Recovery from TURP usually takes around four to six weeks. During this period, it is important to avoid lifting heavy objects, participating in vigorous exercise, or having sexual intercourse until your doctor indicates it is safe to do so. Additionally, refrain from driving or operating machinery while you are taking prescription pain medications.

If your job is not physically demanding, you may be able to return to work within two to three weeks. Be sure to consult your doctor for tailored guidance on when it is appropriate for you to resume work.