Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure commonly used to treat a medical condition known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can lead to urinary problems in older men. TURP is one of the most effective treatments for relieving the symptoms associated with BPH.

Procedure: TURP is performed under anesthesia, and it is considered a minimally invasive surgery. It does not require any external incisions. Instead, a cystoscope is inserted through the urethra into the prostate gland. A resectoscope, which is a specialized instrument, is then used to remove excess prostate tissue that is obstructing the urethra and causing urinary symptoms.

Purpose: The primary goal of TURP is to relieve urinary symptoms associated with BPH, which can include difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak urinary stream, frequent urination, and the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. By removing the excess prostate tissue, TURP widens the urethra, allowing for improved urine flow.

Benefits:

• Effective symptom relief: TURP is highly effective at improving urinary symptoms associated with BPH.

• Minimal scarring: Since it is performed through the urethra, there are no external incisions, resulting in minimal scarring.

• Short hospital stays: Patients usually spend only one or two days in the hospital.

Risks and Complications:

• Erectile dysfunction: While rare, TURP can lead to erectile dysfunction.

• Retrograde ejaculation: This occurs when semen travels backward into the bladder instead of coming out through the penis during ejaculation. It is a common side effect of TURP.

• Bleeding: There may be temporary bleeding after the procedure, but this is usually manageable.

• Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection.

• Urinary incontinence: Some men may experience temporary urinary incontinence after TURP.

Recovery: Most patients experience a significant improvement in their urinary symptoms within a few weeks after the procedure. Complete recovery can take several weeks, during which time you should follow your urologist's recommendations for post-operative care.

TURP is considered a safe and effective treatment for BPH, but it's important for patients to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their urologist before proceeding with the procedure. Alternative treatment options for BPH are available, and the choice of treatment should be based on the patient's specific condition and preferences.