At PromiseCare Medical Group in Hemet, California, men with enlarged prostates have found relief from frustrating symptoms through Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP).
This minimally invasive surgery, performed by skilled urologists, resects obstructive tissue, restoring normal urine flow and significantly improving quality of life.
According to our internal data, TURP boasts a nearly 90% success rate, providing long-lasting relief from BPH symptoms for 15 years or longer.
By understanding the procedure and its benefits, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment options, confident in PromiseCare Medical Group’s medical team’s expertise.
Overview
Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) alleviates urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). When enlarged, the prostate gland puts pressure on the urethra, disrupting urine flow.
TURP involves removing obstructive tissue through transurethral resection to restore normal urination. During surgery, a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra, using an electrical current to remove problematic tissue. The procedure typically lasts 1 to 2 hours and is performed under general or spinal anesthesia.
After surgery, a hospital stay of 1 to 3 days is required, during which a catheter helps drain urine and eliminate blood clots; this leads to a notable enhancement in quality of life, with numerous patients finding relief from urinary symptoms for 15 years or longer.
TURP presents a compelling case for effective, long-term relief from the challenges of BPH.
Types
The TURP procedure has several variants that offer improved outcomes and reduced complications for patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The standard TURP involves removing excess prostate tissue through the urethra using a resectoscope, providing relief from urinary tract symptoms.
TURP variants include Button TURP, which uses a vaporizing device to remove tissue and reduce bleeding during the procedure.
Laser-assisted techniques have also gained popularity, as they reduce bleeding and promote faster recovery. The Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) is another alternative, effectively removing more significant tissue volumes with reduced risk of complications.
Other options include the Prostatic Urethral Lift (UroLift), a minimally invasive procedure that preserves erectile and ejaculatory function, and plasma vaporization of the prostate (PVP), which offers quicker recovery and less bleeding compared to traditional TURP methods.
Each type of TURP procedure has unique benefits, and the best approach will depend on the individual case of BPH.
Why it’s done
Urinary troubles bring more than 150,000 men to the operating room yearly for a TURP procedure. This surgery is often considered when benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, causes troublesome urinary symptoms.
These symptoms may include difficulty starting urination, weak urine flow, frequent urination, especially at night, and a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
TURP is performed to alleviate these symptoms when medication and other non-surgical treatments haven’t provided relief. By removing a portion of the prostate through resection, TURP can improve urinary flow and reduce complications from BPH, such as:
- Bladder stones
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney damage due to obstructed urine flow
- A feeling of urgency to urinate
- Waking up multiple times at night to use the bathroom
While TURP treats the symptoms, it doesn’t cure the underlying condition of BPH. Therefore, ongoing monitoring and potential future interventions may be necessary.
TURP offers a reliable treatment option when other approaches have failed, allowing patients to regain control over their urinary health and improve their quality of life.
Who it’s for
Men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) often consider Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) when medication and other treatments haven’t provided relief from debilitating symptoms. Candidates for TURP typically experience moderate to severe urinary symptoms that haven’t responded to medication. Symptoms may include difficulty starting or maintaining urination, frequent urination (especially at night), and weak or interrupted urine flow.
TURP may also be considered for individuals experiencing complications from BPH, such as urinary retention, bladder stones, recurrent urinary tract infections, or kidney damage. A significantly enlarged prostate that obstructs urine flow is another indication for TURP, even if other treatment options have been ineffective.
Individuals who aren’t suitable for alternative procedures or prefer a surgical solution to manage urinary symptoms may also be candidates for TURP. By undergoing TURP, individuals can alleviate symptoms and regain control over urinary health, improving overall quality of life.
Risks
Surgery always carries some level of risk, and TURP is no exception. Understanding the potential risks involved is essential when considering this procedure.
Possible complications to be aware of include:
- Bleeding during or after the procedure, which may require blood transfusions in rare cases
- Temporary burning sensation during urination and blood in urine, which typically resolve within a few days
- Long-term complications such as urinary incontinence and retrograde ejaculation, which can affect fertility
- Short-term urination difficulties, requiring the use of a catheter for several days following surgery
- Electrolyte imbalances and urinary tract infections, particularly with prolonged catheterization
It is essential to weigh these risks against the benefits of TURP, which can significantly enhance quality of life.
Understanding the potential risks allows for an informed decision about prostate surgery. While complications can occur, many men undergo TURP without experiencing any major issues.
How you prepare
Preparing for transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) requires taking an active role in readying oneself for the procedure.
A comprehensive evaluation of medical history and physical exams are essential to determining overall health and surgical readiness. Blood-thinning medications might need to be stopped, and antibiotics may be recommended to avoid infections.
Adhering to fasting guidelines is essential to ensuring a seamless procedure; this may require refraining from food and drink for a designated time before surgery.
Arranging transportation to and from the hospital is also essential, as anesthesia may impair the ability to drive post-surgery.
Any questions or concerns should be discussed to ensure informed consent is given.
What you can expect
The day of the procedure arrives, and a mix of emotions – anxiety, anticipation, and relief – is standard.
During TURP, a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra to remove excess prostate tissue, typically taking 1 to 2 hours.
Patients typically stay in the hospital for 1 to 3 days, and depending on their recovery progress, some are discharged the same day.
- A Foley catheter is placed to drain urine and may remain in place for 1 day to 1 week.
- Urine may appear bloody initially, but this resolves over time.
- Temporary symptoms like burning sensation during urination, urgency, and blood in the urine may occur.
- These symptoms are usually temporary and diminish with time.
Recovery is closely monitored, and follow-up care is essential to ensure a high long-term success rate for symptom relief.
After TURP, improvements in urinary tract symptoms become noticeable.
The prostate takes time to heal, but with rest and care, recovery progresses, leading to a life free from the burdens of an enlarged prostate.
Results
TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) is an effective treatment for urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate. Nearly 9 out of 10 men experience significant relief. This procedure typically results in substantial improvement in urinary function and overall quality of life.
Long-term success rates are high, with many patients experiencing 15 years or more of relief from benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.
Hospital stays for TURP are generally short, ranging from 1 to 3 days, with some patients being discharged on the same day. During recovery, temporary side effects such as burning sensations, blood in the urine, and increased urgency may occur, but these usually subside over time.
Patient satisfaction rates are generally high, indicating significant improvements in urinary function and quality of life.
To ensure optimal long-term outcomes, regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are crucial.
These check-ups allow for monitoring the recovery process, addressing any emerging complications, and guiding the management of any lingering symptoms.