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Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). During this procedure, a specialized instrument called a resectoscope is inserted through the tip of the penis and into the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder.
The resectoscope allows the physician to view the prostate and remove excess tissue that is blocking the normal flow of urine. TURP is often recommended for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms when medications and other conservative treatments have not provided relief. It is widely considered one of the most effective treatments for BPH. However, it may not be appropriate for every patient, so it is important to discuss your options with your physician.
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, refers to a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. This condition is very common, particularly in older men. As the prostate grows, it can press against the urethra and interfere with the normal flow of urine.
This pressure may lead to urinary symptoms and complications such as bladder infections, urinary tract infections, and, in severe cases, kidney problems. TURP is one of several treatment options that may help relieve these symptoms and improve urinary function.
TURP is used to reduce urinary symptoms caused by BPH. Common symptoms that may lead to this procedure include:
Difficulty starting urination
Frequent urination
Urgent need to urinate
Slow or weak urine stream
Feeling that the bladder cannot fully empty
Stopping and starting during urination
Increased urination at night
Recurrent urinary tract infections
The procedure may also help prevent complications caused by blocked urine flow, such as:
Blood in the urine
Bladder stones
Recurring infections
Kidney damage
Bladder damage
Loss of bladder control
Inability to urinate
As with any surgical procedure, TURP carries some potential risks. Some men may require additional treatment later if symptoms return.
Temporary difficulty urinating may occur after surgery, and a catheter is usually placed in the bladder to help drain urine while swelling improves. Urinary tract infections may occur, particularly while the catheter is in place.
Other potential risks include bleeding, erectile dysfunction, urinary incontinence, or the need for a blood transfusion in rare cases. A rare complication known as TURP syndrome can occur if the body absorbs too much of the fluid used during the procedure. Your physician will discuss these risks with you before surgery.
Before the procedure, your physician may ask you to temporarily stop certain medications, particularly blood thinners. You may also be given antibiotics to help prevent infection.
Because anesthesia is used during the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home afterward. Your physician will also provide guidance about activity restrictions during recovery.
The procedure typically lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. It is usually performed under general anesthesia, though spinal anesthesia may sometimes be used.
During TURP, the physician inserts the resectoscope through the urethra without making external incisions. The instrument trims away excess prostate tissue that is obstructing urine flow.
The removed tissue is flushed into the bladder using an irrigating fluid and then removed from the body.
After surgery, most patients remain in the hospital for one to two days. A catheter is typically placed to allow urine to drain while swelling subsides. It is usually removed within 48 hours.
It is common to notice mild urinary irritation or small amounts of blood in the urine during the early recovery period. If bleeding becomes heavy or persistent, you should contact your physician.
During recovery, your physician may recommend several steps to support healing, including:
Drinking plenty of water to help flush the bladder
Eating high-fiber foods to prevent straining during bowel movements
Avoiding strenuous activity during the early recovery period
Avoiding driving until the catheter has been removed
Avoiding blood-thinning medications until your doctor advises it is safe
You should contact your physician if you experience difficulty urinating, a fever above 100.4°F, bright red blood in your urine, or any signs of infection.
Many men experience significant improvement in urinary symptoms soon after the procedure. Urine flow often becomes stronger within a few days, and overall bladder function typically improves as healing continues.
Follow-up care may be recommended to monitor your recovery and ensure that symptoms remain well controlled. Your physician can help determine whether TURP or another treatment option is the most appropriate choice for managing your BPH.
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