TURP

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to address symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. As men age, their prostate gland grows and if the gland tightens around the urethra it can interrupt the flow of urine from the bladder causing uncomfortable urinary symptoms, in what is known as a benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). A TURP procedure is one of the most commonly performed operations to improve urine flow and provide relief from symptoms. Our leading Urology department offers the very best in TURP procedures and unrivalled level of patient care.

When is a TURP procedure necessary?

This procedure is given to men who have moderate to severe urinary problems and have not responded to medication or alternative interventions such as lifestyle changes or pelvic floor exercises. Symptoms that will deem a patient suitable for a TURP procedure include:

Straining while urinating
Urgent need to urinate
Slow urination
Urinary tract infections
Increased urination during the night
The feeling of being unable to fully empty bladder
Difficulty starting to urinate

A TURP can also be given to men to prevent complications from a block of urinary flow such as:

Kidney or bladder problems
Persistent urinary tract infection
Bladder stones
Blood in urine

What does a TURP procedure involve?

A TURP is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that does not require an incision. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthetic, where you will be unconscious for the duration of the surgery. Alternatively it can be performed under spinal anesthetic, a form of local anesthetic that is injected into your back and will numb them from the waist down.

A small metal rod with a light, camera, and loop of wire attached, known as a resectoscope, is inserted into the tip of the penis and down the urethra so the prostate gland can be trimmed. An electrical current is used to heat the loop of wire at the top of the rod so the surgeon can cut away parts of the prostate. post procedure a catheter is left in situ for 24-48 hours, until the urine is clear. At this point a "trial without catheter" (called TWOC) is done, where the catheter is removed and the patient assessed to ensure he is emptying his bladder sufficiently before being discharged home. Very occasionally a man is unable to urinate adequately, in this scenario the patient may be sent home temporarily with a catheter and a TWOC is attempted again in 1-2 weeks.

Surgeon performing an operation at New Victoria Hospital

Deciding on whether a TURP procedure is right for you

Upon arrival at New Victoria Hospital, you will first have an initial consultation with one of our leading Urologists. This will allow us to get a comprehensive understanding of your condition and enable us to prescribe the best treatment plan.

When deciding whether a TURP is the best course of treatment our experienced Urology team will consider several factors:

The severity of your symptoms
The size of your prostate
If you have other health issues

A TURP is one of the leading treatments to relieve symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. However, a follow up procedure may be required after several years as the prostate can grow back.

Before undergoing surgery one of our Urologists will discuss, in detail, what is involved and any risks associated with the procedure. They will also listen to any concerns and questions you may have regarding the surgery.