TURP Treats Urinary Problems Caused by BPH

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgery used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. TURP can alleviate BPH symptoms, such as difficulty urinating and frequent urination.

A combined visual and surgical instrument called a resectoscope is inserted through the tip of your penis into your urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from your bladder. Using the resectoscope, your doctor removes excess prostate tissue that blocks urine flow. TURP is usually performed under anesthesia, meaning you will be unconscious during the procedure. You will have a urinary catheter in place due to swelling that blocks urine flow. The catheter is typically left in for at least 24 to 48 hours until swelling decreases and you are able to urinate on your own.

Medications may be the first course of treatment for an enlarged prostate. If medications do not provide sufficient symptom relief, if side effects are bothersome, or if prescriptions become too expensive, some men opt for an alternative treatment. TURP is generally considered an option for men with moderate to severe urinary problems that haven’t responded to medication. Traditionally, TURP has been regarded as the most effective treatment for an enlarged prostate; however, newer, minimally invasive procedures are now available.

Some benefits of this treatment include:

• Rapid relief from urinary symptoms (frequency, urgency, nighttime urination, weak stream)
• High success rate (80-90%) with long-lasting results
• Minimally invasive, with no external incisions, less pain, and faster recovery
• Improves bladder emptying
• Reduces the risk of UTIs, bladder stones, and kidney damage