An overview of Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)
TURP, or transurethral resection of the prostate, is a surgical procedure used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. It involves trimming away excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. TURP is typically performed on men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms, such as frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, slow urination, and urinary tract infections. Minimally invasive alternatives are becoming more commonly used due to their lower complication rate and faster recovery time.
What is Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) used for?
TURP is a surgical procedure used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. It involves trimming away excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow, which helps reduce symptoms such as frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, slow urination, increased frequency of urination at night, stopping and starting again while urinating, and the feeling of not emptying the bladder completely. TURP may also be done to treat or prevent complications due to blocked urine flow, such as recurring urinary tract infections, kidney or bladder damage, bladder stones, blood in the urine, and urinary incontinence.
How to prepare for Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)?
Patient preparation is important before undergoing a TURP procedure. Several days before the surgery, your doctor might recommend that you stop taking certain medications that increase the risk of bleeding. You should also arrange transportation on the day of the procedure, as you won't be able to drive yourself home after the procedure or if you have a catheter in your bladder. In addition, you should discuss any concerns or questions about the procedure with your doctor, and ask how much recovery time you might need. During the procedure, you may be given general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, and a dose of antibiotics to prevent infection. The TURP procedure typically takes around 60 to 90 minutes to perform.
How is Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) conducted?
TURP is a surgical procedure conducted to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate. The surgery involves using an instrument called a resectoscope that is inserted through the tip of the penis and into the urethra. The resectoscope helps the doctor to see and trim away excess prostate tissue that is blocking the urine flow. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia, and it takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes to complete. After the surgery, patients may experience temporary difficulty urinating and may require a urinary catheter for a few days. A complete recovery may take up to six weeks.
Understanding the report
Interpreting TURP results involves evaluating the effectiveness of the surgery in alleviating urinary symptoms and potential complications. Factors that contribute to the interpretation include:
- Improvement in urinary symptoms: After the TURP procedure, men should experience a significant improvement in their urinary symptoms, such as a reduction in the frequency, urgency, and difficulty in urination.
- Urine flow rate: The flow rate of urine is measured before and after the procedure. An increase in the urine flow rate indicates that the surgery has successfully removed the blockage in the urethra caused by an enlarged prostate, thereby improving urinary function.
- Postoperative complications: The occurrence of complications like urinary incontinence, bleeding, or infection can impact the interpretation of TURP results. If complications arise, further treatment or adjustments may be necessary.
- Long-term outcomes: The success of TURP is also evaluated based on long-term outcomes, such as the recurrence of urinary symptoms or the need for re-treatment. A successful TURP should provide lasting relief from urinary symptoms, although some men might require additional procedures due to scar tissue formation or other factors. In conclusion, interpreting TURP results involves assessing the improvement in urinary symptoms, the flow rate of urine, the occurrence of postoperative complications, and long-term outcomes. These factors help determine the effectiveness of the surgery and whether any adjustments or further treatment might be needed.