Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure that involves cutting away a section of the prostate.
TURP is often recommended when prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia) causes troublesome symptoms and fails to respond to treatment with medication.
What does the procedure involve?
General or spinal anaesthesia is used to perform the procedure.
The operation is performed via your waterpipe (urethra), so you will not have a cut or stitches as your wound will be inside. This technique is called Trans Urethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP).
The operation is carried out by a telescope and your prostate tissue is removed by a special instrument called a resectoscope (the whole of the prostate gland is not removed). This procedure allows a wider passage for urine to flow more easily.
After the procedure, you may require staying at the hospital for 1-3 days.
It’s normal to have some difficulties urinating and some blood in your urine for a few weeks. These problems should get better as you recover. Full recovery after surgery may take 4-8 weeks.
References:
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/transurethral-resection-of-the-prostate-turp/
- https://www.mkuh.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflet/trans-urethral-resection-of-prostate-turp
- https://www.nhsinform.scot/tests-and-treatments/surgical-procedures/transurethral-resection-of-the-prostate-turp