Introduction
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a common surgical procedure used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The prostate is a small gland in men that surrounds the tube (urethra) through which urine flows from the bladder. As men age, the prostate can grow larger and press on the urethra, leading to trouble urinating: weak stream, difficulty starting or stopping, frequent urination, or feeling that the bladder isn’t empty.
Instead of making an incision in the skin, TURP is done through the urethra using a special instrument called a resectoscope. This instrument has a camera and tiny cutting loop that removes the part of the prostate that is blocking urine flow. Because TURP doesn’t require a large incision, it’s considered less invasive than traditional open surgery and has helped many men get significant relief from BPH symptoms.
Who May Need TURP?
TURP may be recommended if:
- You have moderate to severe urinary symptoms that affect daily life
- Medicines no longer control symptoms well
- You have frequent urinary tract infections due to poor bladder emptying
- You develop bladder stones from long-standing urine retention
- There is kidney damage from back pressure caused by poor flow
- You have recurrent episodes of urinary retention (sudden inability to urinate)
Not all men with an enlarged prostate need TURP. Many start with lifestyle changes and medication. But when symptoms are persistent, bothersome, or causing complications, TURP may be suggested by your urologist (a doctor who specialises in the urinary system).
How TURP Works
Unlike open surgery, TURP does not involve external cuts. Instead, surgeons reach the prostate through the urethra using specialised tools:
- A resectoscope is inserted into the penis and passed gently through the urethra to the prostate area
- The camera on the resectoscope helps the surgeon see the prostate on a screen
- A small wire loop at the tip removes tiny slices of prostate tissue that are compressing the urethra
- The removed tissue is flushed out with fluid
- As the obstructing tissue is cleared, urine can flow more freely
The goal is to remove only the part of the prostate that’s blocking urine flow, preserving as much normal tissue as possible.
TURP Procedure
Before the Procedure
- A complete medical check-up is done, including blood tests and urine tests
- Medications such as blood thinners may be adjusted before surgery
- You’ll be told not to eat or drink for several hours before the operation
- Your doctor will explain the procedure, risks, and what to expect afterward
During the Surgery
1. Anaesthesia: TURP is usually done under general anaesthesia (you are asleep) or spinal anaesthesia (numb from the waist down).
2. Resectoscope Insertion: The surgeon inserts the resectoscope through the urethra to reach the prostate.
3. Tissue Removal: Using the tiny loop, prostate tissue blocking the urine passage is carefully removed in small pieces.
4. Flushing: Sterile fluid is used throughout the procedure to keep the area clear and help the surgeon see well.
5. Completion: When enough tissue has been removed, the resectoscope is taken out, and a urinary catheter may be inserted to help urine drain while healing begins.
The surgery usually takes about 60–90 minutes, depending on prostate size and complexity.
Recovery & Aftercare
Immediately After TURP
- You’ll be monitored in a recovery area until anesthesia wears off
- A catheter (soft tube) may remain in place for a day or two to help drain urine while swelling settles
- You may notice mild burning, blood-tinged urine, or discomfort; this is usually temporary
At Home
Once the catheter is out and you’re comfortable:
- Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the bladder
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for several weeks
- Rest and walk gently; movement helps prevent clots and speeds healing
- Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol at first, as these can irritate the bladder
Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on wound care, activity restrictions, and signs to watch for.
Follow-Up
- Your urologist will check your progress at follow-up visits
- You may need repeat urine tests or imaging to assess recovery
- Medications may be adjusted as needed
Most men see significant improvement in urinary symptoms within a few weeks after TURP.
Risks & Possible Complications
TURP is generally safe and effective, but like any surgery, it carries some risks:
- Bleeding: Mild bleeding is common at first, but significant bleeding is rare
- Infection: Urinary tract or bladder infections can occur but are usually treatable with antibiotics
- Temporary urinary difficulty: Some men may experience urgency, frequency, or incontinence for a short while
- Retrograde ejaculation: Semen may travel backward into the bladder during ejaculation; it is common but harmless
- Urethral stricture: Scar tissue may form later, narrowing the urethra (rare)
- Need for re-treatment: Some men may need repeat procedures years later if prostate tissue regrows
Your surgeon explains risks and how they apply to you before the procedure.
Orthopedics
Surgery
Urology
Gynecology
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Oncology