Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate gland enlarges and obstructs the urethra, causing urinary symptoms. Here's an overview of TURP:
Indications for TURP
Symptomatic BPH: Patients experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, weak urinary stream, or incomplete emptying of the bladder.
Bladder Stones: Stones formed in the bladder due to BPH-related urinary retention.
Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Due to incomplete bladder emptying caused by BPH.
Procedure Overview
1. Preoperative Preparation
Patients may need to stop taking blood-thinning medications before surgery.
A preoperative assessment includes blood tests, urine tests, and possibly imaging studies to evaluate the size of the prostate and rule out other conditions.
2. Anesthesia
TURP is usually performed under spinal or general anesthesia, ensuring patient comfort and immobility during the procedure.
3. Procedure Steps
Insertion of Resectoscope: The patient is positioned on their back with legs raised and supported (lithotomy position). A resectoscope, a thin tube with a light, camera, and surgical instruments, is inserted through the urethra into the prostate.
Resection: Using the resectoscope, the surgeon trims away excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. This tissue is removed in small pieces and flushed into the bladder, where it is later removed.
Bladder Irrigation: Fluid (usually saline) is continuously irrigated through the resectoscope to clear debris and improve visibility.
Cauterization: Bleeding vessels in the prostate are cauterized (burned) or sealed with an electric current to minimize bleeding.
Advantages of TURP
Effective: Provides significant relief from urinary symptoms in the majority of patients.
Minimally Invasive: No external incisions are made, resulting in faster recovery compared to open surgery.
TURP remains a standard and effective treatment for symptomatic BPH when conservative measures are insufficient. It provides significant improvement in urinary function and quality of life for many patients experiencing bothersome urinary symptoms due to prostate enlargement.
