Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP): Relieving Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure commonly performed to alleviate urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. In this article, we'll delve into the significance of TURP, its procedure, benefits, and how it helps improve the quality of life for men suffering from BPH.

Understanding TURP

TURP is a minimally invasive surgical technique aimed at removing excess prostate tissue that is obstructing the flow of urine through the urethra. This procedure is typically recommended for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms caused by BPH, such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, urinary retention, and incomplete bladder emptying.

Procedure Overview

The TURP procedure generally involves the following steps:

1. Preoperative Evaluation: Before the surgery, the patient undergoes a thorough medical evaluation, including a physical examination, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test, and imaging studies to assess the size and condition of the prostate gland.
2. Anesthesia: TURP is performed under either general or spinal anesthesia to ensure the patient's comfort and minimize discomfort during the procedure.
3. Resection: The surgeon inserts a specialized instrument called a resectoscope through the urethra and into the prostate gland. Using a high-frequency electrical current, the surgeon carefully removes small pieces of prostate tissue to relieve urinary obstruction.
4. Irrigation: Throughout the procedure, a sterile irrigation fluid is continuously circulated through the resectoscope to clear away tissue debris and maintain a clear view of the surgical site.
5. Monitoring and Control: The surgeon monitors the progress of the resection and controls bleeding by cauterizing blood vessels as needed.
6. Completion: Once an adequate amount of prostate tissue has been removed, the surgeon withdraws the resectoscope, and a catheter is temporarily placed in the bladder to facilitate urine drainage during the initial recovery period.

Benefits of TURP

• Improved Urinary Symptoms: TURP effectively relieves urinary symptoms associated with BPH, such as urinary frequency, urgency, weak urine stream, and difficulty initiating urination.
• Enhanced Urinary Flow: By removing obstructive prostate tissue, TURP restores the normal flow of urine through the urethra, allowing for easier and more complete bladder emptying.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: Compared to traditional open prostate surgery, TURP is associated with lower rates of complications, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times.
• Long-term Efficacy: TURP provides durable relief of BPH symptoms for the majority of patients, with many experiencing significant improvement in urinary function and quality of life for years following the procedure.

Conclusion

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a highly effective and widely performed surgical intervention for men suffering from urinary symptoms caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). By removing excess prostate tissue and restoring normal urinary flow, TURP helps alleviate discomfort, improve urinary function, and enhance the overall quality of life for patients. If you or a loved one is experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms due to BPH, consult with a qualified urologist to determine if TURP is a suitable treatment option.