Prostate Transurethral Resection Surgery

Prostate Transurethral Resection is a surgical procedure designed to address urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. The prostate, a small gland in the male pelvis, surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine) and is situated between the bladder and the penis. When the prostate enlarges, it can compress the urethra, leading to symptoms such as difficulty urinating and increased pressure on the bladder.

Alternate Name

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)

Procedure Type

Surgical

Body Location

The prostate gland is located in the pelvis, surrounding the urethra.

Preparation for Prostate Transurethral Resection

Discontinue medications that increase bleeding risk, such as blood thinners or certain pain relievers, as recommended by the doctor.
Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Pre-surgical tests such as blood work and an electrocardiogram (ECG) may be required to assess overall health.
Smokers may be advised to quit or reduce smoking to minimize risks of complications like blood clots or chest infections.

How Prostate Transurethral Resection Is Performed

The procedure typically lasts about 90 minutes, depending on the extent of the prostate tissue to be removed.
Anesthesia is administered: either general anesthesia (for unconsciousness) or spinal anesthesia (for pain control while remaining awake).
A resectoscope, a specialized instrument with a light, camera, and wire loop, is inserted through the urethra. The wire, heated with an electric current, trims small portions of the prostate tissue.
A catheter is then used to flush and remove the trimmed tissue pieces.
After the procedure, patients are monitored in the hospital for 2-3 days, during which a catheter remains in place to assist with urination.

Recovery After Prostate Transurethral Resection Surgery

Recovery may take up to 4 weeks. Initially, rest is recommended, with gentle activities like walking encouraged to improve circulation.
Follow-up care typically involves pelvic floor exercises to improve bladder control.
Normal activities, including work, driving, and sexual activity, can usually be resumed 3-4 weeks post-surgery after consulting with a doctor.

Follow-Up Care

Increase water intake to aid in flushing out residual tissue.
Avoid blood-thinning medications until cleared by a doctor.
High-fiber foods and stool softeners may be recommended to prevent straining during bowel movements.
Avoid strenuous activities, lifting heavy objects, and sexual activity for at least a month.
Refrain from driving until the catheter is removed.

Risks Associated with Prostate Transurethral Resection

Difficulty urinating: Temporary inability to urinate post-surgery, requiring catheter use until normal function returns.
Recurring UTIs: Commonly associated with catheter use after surgery.
Retrograde ejaculation: Semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis, affecting reproduction but not sexual pleasure.
Heavy bleeding: Men with larger prostates may experience significant blood loss.
Loss of bladder control: Rare but potential long-term complication.
Re-treatment: Some individuals may require additional procedures if symptoms persist or recur.

Conclusion

Prostate Transurethral Resection is an effective treatment for managing urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. While recovery varies by individual, adherence to medical advice and follow-up care is essential for a smooth recovery and long-term symptom relief.

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