What is Transurethral Resection of the Prostate?

What is TURP Surgery?

TURP surgery, or Transurethral Resection of the Prostate, is a common treatment for prostate problems. In this procedure, doctors remove parts of the prostate gland through the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine out of the body. TURP surgery helps men who have trouble urinating because of an enlarged prostate. This surgery is often called the TURP procedure.

Who Needs TURP Surgery?

Not everyone with prostate issues needs TURP surgery. Usually, doctors suggest it for men with an enlarged prostate who have ongoing symptoms. For example, if medicines do not work or if symptoms are severe, TURP may be the best choice. Sometimes, men who cannot empty their bladder fully or have repeated urinary infections may need this surgery. Your doctor will help decide if TURP is right for you.

Symptoms Leading to TURP

Many men with prostate problems notice changes in their urination. These symptoms can include:

Needing to urinate often, especially at night

Weak urine stream

Difficulty starting to urinate

Feeling that the bladder is not empty

Stopping and starting while urinating

Sudden urge to urinate

If you have these symptoms and they affect your daily life, talk to your doctor. Sometimes, these signs mean you may need a TURP procedure.

How TURP Surgery is Performed

During TURP surgery, doctors use a thin tube called a resectoscope. They insert it through the tip of the penis into the urethra. The resectoscope has a tiny camera and a cutting tool. Doctors remove small pieces of the prostate that block urine flow. The surgery usually takes about one hour. Most patients receive spinal or general anesthesia, so they do not feel pain. After the procedure, a catheter helps drain urine from the bladder while you heal.

Benefits and Risks of TURP Surgery

TURP surgery offers many benefits. For instance, it can:

Improve urine flow

Reduce the need to urinate at night

Lower the risk of urinary infections

Help empty the bladder fully

However, like any surgery, TURP has risks. These may include:

Bleeding during or after surgery

Infection

Temporary difficulty urinating

Retrograde ejaculation (semen goes into the bladder)

Rarely, loss of bladder control

Most side effects are mild and improve with time. Still, it is important to discuss TURP risks and benefits with your doctor. The CDC and other health groups note that TURP is safe for most men.

Recovery and Aftercare

After TURP surgery, most men stay in the hospital for one to two days. The catheter usually stays in place for a short time. Once you go home, you may notice mild discomfort or blood in your urine. This is normal and should improve within a few days. To help your recovery:

Drink plenty of water

Avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks

Take all medicines as prescribed

Follow your doctor’s advice on returning to work or activities

Prostate surgery recovery times vary, but most men feel better within a month. If you have pain, fever, or trouble urinating, contact your doctor right away.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

While you cannot always prevent prostate problems, healthy habits can help. For example:

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables

Stay active with regular exercise

Limit caffeine and alcohol

Do not delay urination when you feel the urge

Visit your doctor for regular check-ups

These steps may lower your risk of needing prostate surgery in the future. Early care can also help manage symptoms before they get worse.

Conclusion

TURP surgery is a safe and effective way to treat problems caused by an enlarged prostate. It can improve your quality of life and help you feel better. However, every person is different. Consult a urologist for personalized advice about TURP surgery.