Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): A Complete Guide

Overview

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate, medically known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Instead of making external cuts, the surgeon inserts a resectoscope—a thin, tube-like instrument—through the urethra to remove excess prostate tissue obstructing urine flow. TURP remains the gold standard for surgical management of BPH due to its high success rate and long-lasting results.

Indications for TURP

TURP is recommended for men experiencing moderate to severe urinary symptoms that have not improved with medication. Common indications include:

• Difficulty starting urination

• Weak urine stream or interrupted flow

• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)

• Incomplete bladder emptying

• Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• Bladder stones or bleeding caused by BPH

The procedure is especially beneficial for patients whose enlarged prostate significantly impacts their quality of life or causes complications such as kidney damage.

How the Procedure Works

During the procedure, the patient is placed under spinal or general anesthesia. The surgeon inserts the resectoscope through the urethra and uses an electrical loop to cut away the excess prostate tissue. Irrigation fluid continuously flows through the instrument to maintain a clear view. The removed tissue is flushed into the bladder and later extracted for laboratory analysis. Most TURP surgeries take about one hour and require a short hospital stay of 1–2 days.

Advantages of TURP

• No external incision: Performed entirely through the urethra, minimizing visible scarring.

• Quick symptom relief: Patients typically experience immediate improvement in urine flow and bladder emptying.

• Short recovery period: Most men resume normal activities within a few weeks.

• Proven effectiveness: TURP provides long-term relief for most patients compared to medication or laser procedures.

• High success rate: Over 90% of men notice significant improvement in urinary function after surgery.

Possible Risks and Complications

As with any surgery, TURP carries some risks, though they are rare. These include temporary difficulty urinating, bleeding, urinary tract infection, or retrograde ejaculation (semen entering the bladder instead of exiting through the penis). These side effects are usually mild and manageable.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

After surgery, a catheter is usually left in place for 1–2 days to help the bladder drain. Mild discomfort, burning during urination, or small amounts of blood in the urine are normal during recovery. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting, intense physical activity, and sexual intercourse for a few weeks.

A follow-up examination ensures proper healing and restored urinary function. Most patients return to normal life quickly with improved comfort and confidence.

Long-Term Outlook

TURP remains one of the most effective and durable treatments for BPH. While newer techniques exist, TURP continues to offer excellent outcomes with low complication rates, making it the trusted choice for millions of men worldwide.