Struggling with the unpleasant symptoms of an enlarged prostate is frustrating, and finding an effective treatment option is critical. No one wants to live with severe BPH for the rest of their lives.
If you’ve been diagnosed with BPH, your doctor may have recommended a TURP procedure. It can be a good option when other treatments haven’t worked. Here’s what you need to know about it.
What is A TURP?
The prostate is a small gland located between the penis and bladder that surrounds the urethra. When the prostate becomes enlarged, it can place pressure on the urethra, preventing urine from flowing freely. A TURP, short for transurethral resection of the prostate, is a surgical procedure performed to remove parts of the prostate gland through the penis. That way, no cuts or incisions are needed.
TURP procedures are performed to remove excess prostate tissue, relieving pressure on the urethra and reducing urinary symptoms.
Why is a TURP performed?
TURP procedures are usually recommended for men who struggle with symptoms of an enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. TURPs are recommended if other treatments, such as medications, have not successfully relieved your symptoms.
Symptoms that usually improve after a TURP procedure include:
- Issues starting a urine stream
- A weak urine flow or a flow that frequently starts and stops.
- Straining to urinate
- A frequent need to urinate
- Nighttime waking to urinate
- Sudeen urges to uriante
- Feeling unable to empty your bladder fully
How is a TURP Performed?
A TURP is performed under general anesthesia. Once you are asleep, your doctor will start the procedure by inserting a small, thin instrument called a resectoscope into the urethra until it reaches the area of the prostate. At the end of the resectoscope is a light, a camera, and a cutting tool so that the procedure can be performed without making any cuts or incisions in the skin.
Your surgeon will use the resectoscope to trim away excess prostate tissue that is blocking the flow of urine. After the prostate tissue has been properly debulked, a catheter is usually placed into the bladder to help drain urine and control any bleeding that may occur. Depending on the patient, the catheter can usually be removed 1 to 4 days after the procedure.
What Are The Risks of A TURP?
Certain risks can occur with any surgical procedure, and a TURP is no different. Common risks of the procedure include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Temporary difficulty in urinating
- Retrograde ejaculation (when semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis as it usually does)
- In some rare cases, erectile dysfunction
Are There Alternatives to a TURP?
Yes, there are alternatives to a TURP procedure that may help relieve your BPH symptoms. The decision to pursue a TURP instead of other treatments depends on many factors. Your urologist will help you decide which option is best.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Minimally invasive procedures that may be considered include:
- Open Prostatectomy: Open prostatectomies are used when the prostate gland is very large and other options may not be suitable. This surgery is much more invasive than a TURP, so it is only used in rare cases.
Learn More About The TURP Procedure
If you’ve been diagnosed with BPH or suspect you may have it, it’s time to schedule an appointment with an expert urologist to discuss your options. They can help you decide if the TURP procedure is right for you.
Don’t continue to live with the frustrating symptoms of BPH – call 843.347.2450 to schedule an appointment today!