About this page. This is a plain English summary of TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate). It does not replace medical advice from your own doctor or specialist.
For full information and references, please read the detailed page.
What is TURP?
TURP stands for Trans Urethral Resection of the Prostate. It is the long-standing standard operation for an enlarged prostate. A telescope is passed through the urethra (the channel through the penis) and small chips of prostate tissue are cut away until a clear channel is opened up.
The easiest way to picture it is like coring out an apple. The outside of the prostate stays in place; the central part that has grown inwards is removed.
How the operation works
- You have a general or spinal anaesthetic.
- A telescope (resectoscope) is passed through the urethra.
- A heated wire loop cuts away small chips of prostate tissue.
- Bleeding vessels are sealed at the same time.
- The cut tissue is washed out at the end and sent for examination.
- A catheter is left in to keep the bladder draining for a day or two.
Recovery
Most men stay in hospital for two to three days. The catheter usually comes out before you go home. Some burning and stinging when passing urine is normal in the first few weeks and settles by itself.
Important things to know
- Most men get retrograde ejaculation after a TURP - the semen passes back into the bladder rather than out. This is permanent. It does not affect orgasm but does affect fertility.
- There is a small chance of bleeding that needs a transfusion.
- Around 1 in 100 men develop some degree of urinary incontinence. This is rare with modern technique.
- About 5 to 10 in 100 men have prostate regrowth over time and need a second procedure years later.
- Very rarely, fluid used during the operation can be absorbed into the body and cause a problem called TUR syndrome.
- Scarring at the bladder neck or urethra can also happen and may need a small further procedure to correct.
What you can do next
- Read the full detailed page with references and patient brochures.
- Short version: the BPH surgical options.
- Short version: holmium laser.
- Short version: Greenlight laser.
- Request a second opinion on a treatment plan.
- Call 02 8382 6980 to make an appointment.