TURP (Prostate)
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) is the standard surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) — an enlarged prostate causing urinary obstruction. A resectoscope is passed through the urethra (no skin incision is made) and a wire loop removes excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. Modern bipolar TURP and laser HoLEP (Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate) are safer alternatives with fewer side effects, particularly regarding fluid absorption and retrograde ejaculation.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
Spinal or general anaesthesia is given.
- 2
A resectoscope (telescope with a cutting loop) is passed through the urethra.
- 3
The prostate tissue obstructing the urinary channel is systematically resected.
- 4
Bleeding is controlled with electrocautery.
- 5
Resected tissue fragments are washed out of the bladder.
- 6
A urinary catheter is left in place for 24–48 hours after surgery.
✅ Benefits of TURP (Prostate)
- ✓Definitive treatment for urinary obstruction from enlarged prostate
- ✓Dramatically improves urine flow and quality of life
- ✓No skin incision — performed entirely through the urethra
- ✓High success rate for symptom relief
- ✓Short hospital stay of 2–3 days
📋 How to Prepare
- Urine culture to exclude infection before surgery.
- Stop blood thinners as directed.
- Prostate biopsy results if PSA is elevated.
- Urine flow study (uroflowmetry) and post-void residual ultrasound.
- Fast from midnight before the procedure.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Retrograde ejaculation (semen goes backward into the bladder) — occurs in 50–90% after TURP
- Temporary urinary incontinence after catheter removal — resolves in most patients
- Urethral stricture (scarring) — long-term risk in some patients
- TURP syndrome (fluid absorption into the bloodstream) — largely avoided with bipolar technique
- Erectile dysfunction — risk is lower with TURP than open surgery
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Catheter removed after 24–48 hours; initial urination may be urgent or slightly painful.
- Drink 2–3 litres of water daily to flush the bladder.
- Avoid driving for 1–2 weeks and heavy lifting for 4–6 weeks.
- Avoid constipation — straining can cause bleeding.
- PSA falls to very low levels after TURP; this is normal and does not mean all cancer is excluded.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will TURP affect my sexual function?
TURP causes retrograde ejaculation in most patients — orgasm is intact but semen goes into the bladder. Erectile dysfunction is uncommon. These effects should be discussed fully with your urologist before surgery.
What is the difference between TURP and HoLEP?
TURP uses an electrical loop to resect the prostate. HoLEP uses a holmium laser to enucleate (shell out) the entire inner prostate, allowing treatment of even very large glands with less bleeding and a shorter catheter time.
🏥 TURP (Prostate) at Iswarya Hospital
Advanced diagnostic and surgical care for adult and pediatric urological conditions, led by Dr. Prabhu.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.