TURP stands for Transurethral Resection of the Prostate, a surgical procedure used to treat urinary difficulties caused by an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia). During the surgery, a surgeon uses a resectoscope, inserted through the urethra, to cut away excess prostate tissue to relieve the blockage. Most patients have a good outcome, though side effects like bleeding, infection, or retrograde ejaculation can occur.  

Procedure

• A resectoscope is guided into the urethra and up to the prostate gland. 

• A wire loop on the resectoscope uses an electric current to cut away excess prostate tissue. 

• Pieces of tissue are flushed out with fluid, and a catheter may be used temporarily to drain urine. 

• The procedure can take up to an hour and most men go home the next day. 

Recovery

• You can expect some blood in your urine and burning or frequent urination for several weeks. 

• Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and straining for about six weeks. 

• It's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids (about 6-8 glasses of water a day) to help prevent infection and flush out the bladder, but avoid caffeine. 

• Eat a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation, which can cause straining. 

Potential side effects

• Common:

  • Retrograde ejaculation, where semen goes into the bladder instead of out the penis (often causes less semen or no visible semen). 

  • Feeling the need to urinate frequently for up to six weeks. 

• Less common:

  • Infection, which can be treated with antibiotics. 

  • Bleeding requiring a blood transfusion (rare). 

  • Rare but serious: Urinary incontinence or erectile dysfunction, which can be temporary or, rarely, permanent. 

What to expect long-term

• Most men experience a significant improvement in their urinary symptoms. 

• With modern techniques, a return to strenuous activity is often possible in as little as 2 weeks, but it's essential to follow your doctor's advice.