What is Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)?
TURP is a surgical intervention involving minimal invasiveness, which is carried out to cure Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), a prostate gland that is enlarged and leads to urinary issues. In this process, a resectoscope is passed up the urethra to excise any extra prostate tissue to ease the bladder and allow normal urine flow to resume. It is regarded as the gold standard when it comes to the treatment of BPH in men who are non-responsive to medication.
Types of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate
While TURP is generally considered one of the most common treatments for an enlarged prostate (BPH), there are different approaches depending on your health, prostate size, and the technology used.
- Monopolar TURP: This is the traditional method where an electric current passes through a wire loop to cut away extra prostate tissue. It's widely practised, reliable, and effective, but usually requires a saline-like solution to wash the bladder, and patients may stay in the hospital for a couple of days.
- Bipolar TURP: A newer technique that uses a different type of electric current, allowing surgeons to work with standard saline solution instead of special fluids. This reduces the risk of complications like TURP syndrome and is often considered safer for patients with certain health conditions.
- Laser TURP (Holmium Laser Enucleation): Rather than electricity, laser energy is used to ablate the superfluous prostate tissue. It usually results in less bleeding, which is why it is often chosen when patients take blood thinners or are at high risk of surgery. The recovery is generally faster than the conventional TURP.
1-2 Hours
Surgery Duration
Spinal or General Anesthesia
Anesthesia Used
When is Transurethral Resection Of the Prostate Recommended?
TURP is usually recommended when an enlarged prostate (BPH) starts causing symptoms that affect your daily comfort or overall health. Here are the most common reasons why doctors suggest the procedure:
- Persistent Urinary Problems: When you are experiencing a weak urine stream, difficulty in initiating or ceasing urination or incomplete bladder emptying, TURP can be used to enhance your quality of life.
- Frequent or Urgent Urination: When you need to urinate more often, especially at night (nocturia), and it disrupts your sleep or daily routine, surgery may be the best solution after medications fail.
- Urinary Retention: In some cases, the enlarged prostate blocks urine flow completely, making it impossible to empty the bladder without a catheter. TURP helps relieve this blockage and restores normal flow.
- Bladder or Kidney Damage: Long-term obstruction can strain the bladder or even cause kidney problems. TURP is performed to prevent further complications and protect long-term health.
- Recurrent Infections or Stones: Frequent urinary tract infections or bladder stones caused by retained urine are strong indicators for surgery, as removing the obstruction prevents them from coming back.
Preparing for Transurethral Resection of the Prostate Surgery
Preparing for a TURP procedure is just as important as the surgery itself. Following your doctor's advice and making a few lifestyle changes will ensure a smoother surgery.
Medical Evaluation & Pre-Surgical Tests
Your urologist is going to check with your medical history, current medications, and your general health condition. Laboratory tests such as blood, urine, and ECG, or scans of other organs, can be requested to ensure that you are fit to have surgery. This move can help the team consider safety and mitigate risks in advance.
Medication Adjustments
You might be required to discontinue blood thinners (such as aspirin or warfarin) one to two weeks before surgery because they make you more likely to bleed. Never stop taking medicines without the recommendation of your doctor. Do not change on medical advice.
Lifestyle Changes Before Surgery
Quit smoking at least 2-4 weeks before TURP because it slows down healing and increases complications. Limit alcohol and focus on a healthy diet rich in fibre and hydration to support recovery. Staying active with light exercise is encouraged unless advised otherwise.
Arranging Support at Home
Plan for someone to take you to and from the hospital, as you won't be able to drive right after surgery. Arrange for a family member or friend to assist during the first couple of days at home. Keep essentials like loose clothes, water, and light meals ready in advance.
The Day Before & Day of Surgery
Follow fasting instructions (usually no food or drink after midnight) before your procedure. Your doctor may recommend a mild enema or medication to clear the bladder. On the day, wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid jewellery, perfumes, or lotions.
What Happens During Transurethral Resection Of Prostate Surgery?
During TURP, a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra, and prostate tissue causing blockage is removed using electrical energy.
- Anesthesia & Preparation: Once you're in the operating room, anaesthesia is given either in your spine (numbing from the waist down) or through general anaesthesia (you're fully asleep). The surgical area is sterilised, and a resectoscope (a thin tube with a light and a camera) is gently inserted through the urethra.
- Resection of Prostate Tissue: Using a small electrical loop or laser, the surgeon carefully removes the excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. The tissue is cut into tiny pieces and flushed out with fluid. This helps open up the passage and improve urination.
- Continuous Irrigation: Throughout the surgery, sterile fluid is continuously infused into the bladder to keep the area clear and ensure the surgeon has a clear view. This also helps wash away the removed tissue.
- Completion of Surgery: After the prostate tissue is removed, a catheter (thin flexible tube) is placed in the bladder to allow urine to drain while the area heals. The procedure typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes, depending on prostate size.
- Post-Procedure Care in Hospital: You'll stay in the recovery room for observation and then be moved to your hospital room. The catheter usually remains for 1-3 days to help with healing. Most patients can return home within 2-4 days after the surgery.
Which Specialist will perform the TURP Procedure?
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) is typically performed by a urologist, a medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of urinary system disorders, including conditions related to the prostate.
Recovery After TURP Surgery Procedure
Recovering from a TURP is a gradual process, and while most men feel relief in urine flow soon after surgery, it takes some time for complete healing.
First Few Days After Surgery
In the first 2-3 days, you may notice blood in your urine, this is normal as the bladder and urethra heal. A catheter will be in place to drain urine and flush out blood clots. Mild burning or discomfort while urinating can happen once the catheter is removed. Rest is crucial during this period.
Doctor's Tip: "Drink plenty of water to flush the bladder, but avoid caffeine and alcohol as they can irritate healing tissues."
Weeks 1 to 3
By the first week, most men feel stronger and can return to light activities. Urine flow improves, though some frequency, urgency, or mild leakage may still be present. Avoid lifting heavy weights, straining, or sexual activity, as these can stress the healing prostate.
Doctor's Tip: "Recovery is not just about physical healing but also patience, small improvements each day add up."
Weeks 4 to 6
Most urinary symptoms continue to improve, and bleeding usually stops by this time. Energy levels rise, and many men return to work if their job isn't physically demanding. Gentle exercises like walking are encouraged to boost circulation and speed up recovery.
Doctor's Tip: "If you still see blood after 4 weeks, consult your surgeon immediately instead of waiting for it to settle."
2 to 3 Months Post-Surgery
By this stage, most men enjoy the full benefits of TURP, stronger urine flow, less straining, and improved quality of life. Sexual function often returns, though some men may experience changes like retrograde ejaculation (semen entering the bladder instead of coming out).
Doctor's Tip: "Stay positive. Most of these changes are harmless, and your doctor will guide you if anything needs attention."
Lifestyle Changes After TURP
- Drink plenty of water to flush the bladder and aid healing.
- Avoid heavy lifting, straining, or vigorous exercise for a few weeks.
- Limit caffeine and alcohol to reduce bladder irritation.
- Follow your doctor's advice on catheter care if one is placed.
Benefits of TURP surgery
TURP relieves urinary symptoms, improves bladder emptying, reduces urinary retention, and improves quality of life.
- Improved urine flow: Removes blocked prostate tissue, making urination easier and more complete.
- Relief from symptoms: Reduces frequent urination, urgency, weak stream, and nighttime trips to the bathroom.
- Prevents complications: Lowers the risk of bladder infections, stones, and kidney damage caused by untreated BPH.
- Better quality of life: Improves sleep, comfort, and daily activities without constant bathroom interruptions.
- High success rate: Considered the gold-standard procedure for long-term relief when medications no longer work.
Risks of TURP Surgery
Potential risks include bleeding, infection, urinary incontinence, retrograde ejaculation, or urethral stricture.
- Bleeding and infection: Possible immediately after surgery, though usually controlled with medical care.
- Temporary urinary issues: Short-term difficulty in controlling urine or needing a catheter for a few days.
- Retrograde ejaculation: Semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis; harmless but can affect fertility.
- Urethral stricture: Rare narrowing of the urethra that may require further treatment.
- Repeat surgery: In some cases, symptoms may return after years, requiring another procedure.
What is the Cost of TURP Surgery?
The cost of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) in India typically ranges from Rs. 70,000 to Rs. 1,50,000, depending on factors like the hospital, surgeon's expertise, type of TURP performed (monopolar, bipolar, or laser)
040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
