TURP – Transurethral resection of the prostate
This page will provide you with information about TURP (Transurethral resection of the prostate). For further details, please speak to your consultant.
What can cause prostate problems?
If the prostate gland grows it can lead to problems in the region (see Figure 1). Whilst it is normal for the prostate gland to grow with age, if it tightens around the urethra it can cause the flow of urine from the bladder to be interrupted.
Figure 1
The position of the prostate gland
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What are the benefits of surgery?
Surgery can help to improve the flow of urine and help with bladder emptying. It can also reduce the need to pass urine during the night.
What are the alternatives to surgery?
In the majority of cases, an operation is not necessary. Some medications are available that treat the issue – however, medications rarely provide a permanent solution.
What will happen during the operation?
The patient will be placed under general or spinal anaesthetic and the operation takes less than 60 minutes. The surgeon will place a resectoscope (a small operating telescope) into the urethra. Using the resectoscope the surgeon will remove enough prostate tissue to allow for the free-flow of urine.
Risks and complications
Any risks or complications will be discussed in advance of your treatment with your expert consultant.
Recovery
Most patients will be allowed to return home within 3-4 days after the operation, and will be able to return to work after 4-6 weeks.
Most patients also experience stinging the first few times they pass urine, but normal exercise can help with the recovery process. Advice should always be sought from your consultant before beginning exercise.
Most patients make a good recovery and experience significant improvements in their symptoms. The prostate gland can, however, grow larger again in time.
Summary
It is quite common for men to experience prostate problems. If medication doesn’t help or symptoms are severe, prostate surgery may be advised.
References
EIDO Healthcare Limited – The operation and treatment information on this page is produced using information from EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed by Aspen Healthcare.
The information provided here should not replace advice that your relevant health professional would give you.
TURP – Transurethral resection of the prostate Consultants
Qualifications
FRCS (Urol) SA
Clinical Interests
Prostate, bladder and scrotal problems
Urinary infections
Circumcision
Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal
Robotic and...
Qualifications
FRCS (Urol) SA
Clinical Interests
Prostate, bladder and scrotal problems
Urinary infections
Circumcision
Vasectomy and vasectomy reversal
Robotic and...
Qualifications
MS, FRCS (Urol), MA
Clinical Interests
All aspects of general urology, particularly female urology, urinary incontinence and urine infections.
Sees adults...
Qualifications
MS, FRCS (Urol), MA
Clinical Interests
All aspects of general urology, particularly female urology, urinary incontinence and urine infections.
Sees adults...
Qualifications
FRCS, FCS(SA), UROL, MMed(UCT)
Clinical Interests
Laparoscopic and robotic urology surgery
Laparoscopic open kidney surgery/kidney removal
Kidney disorders and stone...
Qualifications
FRCS, FCS(SA), UROL, MMed(UCT)
Clinical Interests
Laparoscopic and robotic urology surgery
Laparoscopic open kidney surgery/kidney removal
Kidney disorders and stone...
Qualifications
MB BS, FRCS, FRCS(Urol)
Clinical Interests
Female urology
Incontinence surgery
Prolapse
Bladder dysfunction
Interstitial cystitis and urinary tract infections
Paediatric...
Qualifications
MB BS, FRCS, FRCS(Urol)
Clinical Interests
Female urology
Incontinence surgery
Prolapse
Bladder dysfunction
Interstitial cystitis and urinary tract infections
Paediatric...
Qualifications
MD, BSc, FRCS(Urol)
Clinical Interests
Prostate cancer
Bladder cancer
General urology
Sees adults only
Qualifications
MD, BSc, FRCS(Urol)
Clinical Interests
Prostate cancer
Bladder cancer
General urology
Sees adults only
Qualifications
MBBS, MD, FRCS (Urol)
Clinical Interests
Circumcision
Prostate and bladder problems
Testicular conditions, benign and malignant
Diagnosis and treatment of prostate...
Qualifications
MBBS, MD, FRCS (Urol)
Clinical Interests
Circumcision
Prostate and bladder problems
Testicular conditions, benign and malignant
Diagnosis and treatment of prostate...
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) MBBS (Eng) MRCS (Eng) FRCS (Urol)
Clinical Interests
Female urology, recurrent urinary tract infections, incontinence in men and women, pelvic organ prolapse, neuro-urology...
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) MBBS (Eng) MRCS (Eng) FRCS (Urol)
Clinical Interests
Female urology, recurrent urinary tract infections, incontinence in men and women, pelvic organ prolapse, neuro-urology...
Qualifications
BSc (Hons), MBBS(Lon), MD(Lon), FRCS(Eng), FRCS (Urol)
Clinical Interests
General urology including Holmium Laser Enculeation of the Prostate (HOLEP)
Management of kidney stones, prostate and...
Qualifications
BSc (Hons), MBBS(Lon), MD(Lon), FRCS(Eng), FRCS (Urol)
Clinical Interests
General urology including Holmium Laser Enculeation of the Prostate (HOLEP)
Management of kidney stones, prostate and...
Qualifications
MBBS, FRCS (Urol), MD
Clinical Interests
General urology, urinary tract infections, haematuria, female urinary disorders/problems incontinence, renal stones...
Qualifications
MBBS, FRCS (Urol), MD
Clinical Interests
General urology, urinary tract infections, haematuria, female urinary disorders/problems incontinence, renal stones...
