Transurethral Resection of the Prostate  

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical treatment for an enlarged prostate.    

As they pass the age of 50, a majority of men begin to experience urination problems brought on by prostate enlargement. Medication can relieve the symptoms for some, but others might need surgical intervention. Transurethral resection of the prostate is a surgical procedure that can relieve the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, including: 

  • A frequent, urgent need to urinate 
  • Difficulty urinating 
  • Increased urination at night 
  • Urinary tract infections 
  • Prolonged urination 

TURP may also be a viable option for men who are experiencing similar urological symptoms brought on by prostate cancer but aren’t candidates to have their prostate removed. 

TURP Details 

A TURP procedure can take up to 90 minutes to perform, and patients are often given general anesthesia so they remain asleep throughout. A resectoscope, featuring a camera, irrigation valves and an electrical wire loop, is inserted into the tip of the penis and guided up the urethra to the prostate area. The resectoscope is used to trim small pieces of prostate tissue that are blocking the urethra. The pieces are flushed into the bladder, then removed at the end of the procedure. 

What to Expect With a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate 

Patients who undergo a transurethral resection of the prostate usually remain in the hospital for one to three days. A catheter is inserted into the bladder to allow urine to drain while the prostate heals. The catheter is removed when the swelling subsides and the patient can urinate on his own.  

Patients may continue to observe a small amount of blood in their urine after they go home, and urination may remain painful for six to eight weeks.  

How Effective Is a TURP? 

Once the patient recovers from the effects of the procedure, a TURP typically relieves the symptoms quickly. Most patients experience a significantly stronger urine flow in a matter of days.  

Tampa General Hospital offers comprehensive diagnostic services and treatment for conditions that cause an enlarged prostate, including transurethral resection of the prostate.