Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
What is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)?
A transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is the endoscopic surgical treatment of benign hyperplasia (enlargement of the prostate).
With transurethral resection of the prostate, the inner part (adenoma) of the prostate is removed, which prevents the passage of urine and causes the symptoms of benign hyperplasia (enlargement of the prostate).
It is an endoscopic operation that means that it is performed from the urethra (from where the man urinates), without cutting the skin.
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is performed under spinal anesthesia or with general anesthesia.
After the anesthesia, the urologist inserts a special endoscopic instrument from the urethra, the resectoscope, which reaches the area of the prostate and bladder. This special endoscope has a camera with which the urologist sees on a special screen the inside of the prostate. Through this endoscope, with the help of an electric loop, the inside of the prostate is cut into many small pieces. The loop cuts and cauterize the prostatic tissue that cause the obstruction.
After the operation, a special catheter is inserted through which special fluid washes are performed. The catheter and washes remain in the patient usually for 24-48 hours until the prostate area heals and stops bleeding.