Health Guide / TRANSURETHRAL RESECTION OF THE PROSTATE (TURP)

TRANSURETHRAL RESECTION OF THE PROSTATE (TURP)

A transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure in which a section of the prostate is removed.

The prostate is a small gland located in the pelvis that is only found in men. It is situated between the penis and the bladder and protects the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis).

When the prostate enlarges, it can put pressure on the bladder and urethra. This can result in symptoms such as difficulty peeing.

Why TURP is carried out

When medication fails to relieve symptoms caused by prostate enlargement, TURP is frequently recommended.

Following a TURP, the following symptoms may improve:

• problems with starting to pee
• a weak flow of pee, or stopping and starting
• having to strain to pee
• a frequent need to pee
• waking up frequently during the night to pee
• a sudden urge to pee
• being unable to empty your bladder fully

How TURP is performed

A resectoscope, which is a thin metal tube with a light, camera, and wire loop, is used to perform TURP. This is passed through your urethra until it reaches your prostate, requiring no cuts (incisions) in your skin.

The heated wire loop is then used to cut away the section of your prostate that is causing your symptoms. A catheter is then inserted into your urethra to pump fluid into your bladder and flush out any prostate fragments that have been removed.

General or spinal anesthesia is used during the procedure to keep you from feeling any pain.

Recovering from TURP

You'll usually need to stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days after your surgery, though some hospitals allow you to go home the same day.

The catheter used during the procedure is usually removed between one day and one week later.

Feeling tired and ill for a week or two after returning home is normal. Most men are up and about after this time, but you should rest for 3 to 4 weeks.

You should avoid lifting heavy objects, engaging in strenuous exercise, driving, and having sex for at least a few weeks. It's normal to have some peeing difficulties and blood in your pee for a few days.

Make an appointment to get a prostate examination and treatment from Deva Hospital.