What is TURP?

TURP or transurethral resection of the prostate is a surgical procedure where enlarged, obstructing portion of the prostate is removed. It is performed to treat urinary issues that arise due to an enlarged prostate. The prostate is a small gland located in the pelvis and found only in men. It surrounds the urethra and is situated between the bladder and penis. When the prostate becomes enlarged, it exerts an increased amount of pressure on the urethra and bladder. This can affect the person’s urination and cause severe discomfort.

Why is TURP performed?

Your doctor will suggest TURP if you start showing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostate enlargement. This condition can cause troublesome symptoms and sometimes fail to respond to medication. Some of the symptoms of an enlarged prostate include:

• Problems with starting to urinate
• Weak urine flow
• Discontinuous urine flow with frequent stopping and starting
• Frequent need to urinate, sometimes during the night (nocturia)
• Sudden urge to urinate
• Having to apply more pressure than normal to urinate
• Unable to empty the bladder completely

These symptoms can be corrected if you undergo TURP.

What happens during a TURP procedure?

TURP is minimally invasive procedure that requires spinal or epidural anaesthesia. During the procedure, a thin metal tube called a resectoscope is passed to your prostate through the urethra. The resectoscope comes attached with a loop of wire, camera and a light, which allows the doctor to be able to visualize the affected area. The wire loop is heated using electric current and used to remove a section of the prostate. A catheter is inserted and fluid is pumped into the bladder to flush out any blood clot that may have freshly formed.

If you are facing difficulties with urination, consult a urologist today.