TURP - Transurethral Resection of the Prostate

What is a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)?

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate gland becomes enlarged and presses against the urethra, causing urinary problems. TURP removes part of the prostate to improve urine flow and significantly enhance your quality of life. This procedure is highly effective at relieving symptoms like difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, and frequent urination.

Why is a TURP performed?

As men get older, the prostate gland may enlarge, compressing the urethra and leading to uncomfortable urinary symptoms. Common symptoms of BPH include:

• Difficulty starting to urinate.
• Weak or interrupted urine flow.
• Frequent urination, particularly at night.
• A sense of incomplete bladder emptying.
• Sudden, urgent needs to urinate.
• Bladder infections or stones due to retained urine.

When these symptoms interfere with your daily life and medications no longer provide relief, TURP may be recommended as a long-term solution. It is a safe and straightforward procedure that helps restore urinary function.

What does the procedure involve?

When you arrive at the hospital, you will meet your nurse, anaesthetist, and surgeon. TURP is usually performed under general or spinal anaesthesia, so you’ll either be asleep or have the lower half of your body numbed.

During the procedure, the surgeon inserts a thin tube called a resectoscope through your urethra to reach the prostate. A loop at the end of the resectoscope removes the parts of the prostate blocking your urine flow. Since no external cuts are needed, the procedure is minimally invasive and usually lasts around an hour.

After surgery, a catheter is placed in your bladder to help with drainage while you heal. This is typically removed within a few days.

What are the benefits of TURP?

TURP is highly effective at improving urinary symptoms caused by BPH. Most men experience significant improvements in their urine flow and quality of life. The procedure doesn’t cure BPH but provides long-lasting relief, and many patients don’t need further treatment.

What are the potential risks and complications?

TURP is a very safe procedure, but like all surgeries, it carries some risks, including:

• Infection: A small risk of infection, often managed with antibiotics.
• Bleeding: It’s normal to notice blood in your urine for a few weeks after surgery.
• Retrograde ejaculation: Semen enters the bladder instead of exiting the penis. This is common, not harmful, but may affect fertility.
• Urinary incontinence: Rare and usually temporary.
• Erectile dysfunction: Uncommon, but some men may experience this after surgery.

Your surgeon will explain these risks before your procedure and provide guidance on managing any symptoms during recovery.

What to expect after the procedure

Recovery from TURP is typically smooth, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions. You’ll likely stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days.

What to expect during recovery:

• Some mild bleeding, discomfort, or a burning sensation when urinating for a few weeks. These symptoms usually improve with time.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for about 4 to 6 weeks.
• Drink plenty of water to maintain good urine flow, reduce the risk of infection, and support healing.
• You can usually return to normal activities within 6 weeks, but your doctor will advise on when it’s safe to drive, work, or exercise.

Long-term outcomes

TURP is highly effective at relieving the symptoms of BPH and restoring normal urine flow. You can expect a significant improvement in your urinary function and overall quality of life after the procedure. While TURP doesn’t cure BPH, the relief it provides is often long-lasting, and many men don’t need further treatment.

Follow-up care is essential for monitoring your recovery. Regular check-ups with your doctor will help ensure that you continue to manage your prostate health effectively and address any concerns as they arise.