About TURP Surgery

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is an effective treatment for men experiencing moderate to severe urinary problems that have not improved with medication. This minimally invasive procedure has a high success rate in alleviating urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate gland. However, like any surgical intervention, it carries certain risks, including bleeding, infection, and urinary incontinence. The overall duration of the procedure is approximately 60 to 90 minutes.

Benefits of TURP Surgery:

• Symptom Relief: TURP significantly reduces urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, including frequent urination, difficulty initiating or stopping urination, and weak urine flow.
• Improved Quality of Life: Many patients report a notable improvement in their overall quality of life after surgery, allowing them to participate in daily activities without discomfort.
• Minimally Invasive: As a minimally invasive procedure, TURP results in less pain and a quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
• Long-lasting Results: The effects of TURP are typically long-lasting, with many patients enjoying symptom relief for years.
• Reduced Need for Ongoing Medication: After the procedure, many patients find that they no longer require medications to manage their symptoms, leading to cost savings and reduced side effects.

Risks of TURP Surgery:

• Bleeding: There is a potential risk of bleeding during or after the procedure, which may necessitate further treatment.
• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, particularly in the urinary tract.
• Urinary Incontinence: Some patients may experience temporary or permanent urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control) following surgery.
• Erectile Dysfunction: Although rare, some men may experience erectile dysfunction after undergoing TURP.
• Retrograde Ejaculation: This occurs when semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis during ejaculation. While it can affect fertility, it is not harmful.
• Need for Additional Procedures: In certain cases, patients may require further treatments or surgeries if symptoms recur or complications arise.

Procedure of TURP Surgery

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical intervention aimed at treating urinary symptoms related to an enlarged prostate gland. The procedure begins with the administration of either general anaesthesia or spinal anesthesia to ensure the patient’s comfort.

Procedure Steps:

Before the Procedure:

• Consultation: The patient meets with a urologist to discuss symptoms, medical history, and the rationale for surgery. Tests may include a physical exam, blood tests, or imaging studies.
• Preoperative Instructions: The doctor provides instructions that may involve avoiding certain medications (like blood thinners) and not eating or drinking for a specified period prior to the procedure.
• Anesthesia Discussion: The patient discusses anesthesia options, which may include general anesthesia (where the patient is asleep) or spinal anesthesia (which numbs the lower body).

During the Procedure:

• Positioning: The patient is comfortably positioned on the operating table, typically lying on their back.
• Administration of Anesthesia: Anesthesia is given to ensure the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.
• Insertion of the Resectoscope: The surgeon inserts a specialized instrument called a resectoscope through the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). The resectoscope is equipped with a camera and cutting tools.
• Resection of Prostate Tissue: Using the resectoscope, the surgeon carefully removes excess prostate tissue that is obstructing urinary flow. This process includes:
  • Cutting away small pieces of prostate tissue.
  • Using irrigation fluid to wash away blood and tissue, ensuring clear visibility for the surgeon.
• Completion of the Procedure: Once sufficient tissue has been removed, the surgeon withdraws the resectoscope and checks for any signs of bleeding.
• Catheter Placement: A catheter (a thin tube) is often placed in the bladder to facilitate urine drainage during the recovery period.

After the Procedure:

• Recovery in the Hospital: The patient is transferred to a recovery area where they are monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. Vital signs will be checked, and pain relief will be provided as needed.
• Hospital Stay: Most patients remain in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. The catheter typically stays in place for a few days to allow the bladder to heal.
• Home Care Instructions: Before discharge, the doctor provides instructions for home care, which may include:
  • Drinking plenty of fluids to help flush the bladder.
  • Managing any pain with prescribed medications.
  • Monitoring for signs of infection (such as fever or increased pain).
• Follow-Up Appointments: A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled within a few weeks to assess healing and determine if the catheter needs to be removed.

During the procedure, the removed tissue is flushed out of the bladder, and the surgeon monitors the patient’s condition closely to manage any complications. Following the procedure, patients must adhere to post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.