Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a common surgical procedure used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can cause urinary symptoms. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our urology experts perform TURP using advanced techniques to relieve urinary obstruction and improve patients’ quality of life.

Procedure Overview:

Preparation:

• Patients undergo pre-operative assessments, including medical history review, physical exams, and relevant diagnostic tests such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and imaging studies.
• Bowel preparation and instructions regarding medications and fasting are provided before the procedure.

Anesthesia:

• TURP is performed under regional or general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

Resection Procedure:

• A specialized instrument called a resectoscope is inserted into the urethra and guided to the prostate gland.
• Using the resectoscope’s wire loop, the surgeon trims away excess prostate tissue that is causing urinary obstruction.
• The removed tissue is flushed out of the bladder, and bleeding is controlled during the procedure.

Post-Procedure Care:

• Patients are closely monitored in the recovery area for any immediate complications such as bleeding or difficulty urinating.
• Catheter Placement: A urinary catheter may be placed temporarily to allow proper drainage of urine while the prostate heals.
• Pain management, antibiotics, and other medications may be prescribed as needed.
• Patients receive instructions on post-operative care, including activity restrictions, diet recommendations, and follow-up appointments.

Benefits of TURP:

Improved Urinary Symptoms:

• TURP effectively relieves urinary symptoms associated with BPH, such as weak urine flow, frequent urination, urgency, and incomplete bladder emptying.

Minimally Invasive:

• Compared to open surgery, TURP is minimally invasive, leading to shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and reduced risk of complications.

Long-Term Efficacy:

• Many patients experience long-lasting relief from BPH symptoms after TURP, reducing the need for frequent medication use and improving overall quality of life.

Recovery and Follow-Up:

Hospital Stay:

• Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for a day or two following TURP, depending on individual recovery progress and medical needs.

Catheter Removal:

• The urinary catheter is typically removed within a few days to a week after the procedure, once urine flow stabilizes.

Follow-Up Care:

• Patients are scheduled for follow-up visits to monitor healing, urinary function, and symptom improvement.
• Ongoing management may include medications, lifestyle modifications, and regular check-ups to maintain prostate health.

 

What is Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), and who is a candidate for this procedure?

TURP is a surgical procedure to treat urinary symptoms caused by enlarged prostate glands (BPH). Candidates typically include men with moderate to severe BPH symptoms that do not respond well to medications.

 

How does TURP compare to other BPH treatments such as medication or laser therapies?

TURP is highly effective for long-term symptom relief and is often recommended when medications fail to provide adequate relief. Laser therapies may be considered for specific cases based on patient factors and prostate size.

 

What are the potential risks or complications associated with TURP?

Risks include bleeding, infection, urinary incontinence, retrograde ejaculation, and rare but serious complications such as bladder perforation. Our surgical team takes precautions to minimize these risks.

 

What is the recovery process like after TURP, and when can patients expect symptom improvement?

Recovery involves gradual improvement in urinary symptoms over several weeks. Patients may experience temporary urinary frequency, urgency, and discomfort initially, which typically improves with time.

 

Are there lifestyle changes or medications recommended after TURP to maintain prostate health?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, balanced diet, and managing other health conditions, can support prostate health post-TURP. Some patients may need ongoing medication management for BPH symptoms.

 

How often should patients follow up after TURP, and what can they expect during follow-up visits?

Follow-up schedules vary but often include visits within a few weeks post-surgery and periodic check-ups thereafter. Follow-up visits assess urinary function, symptom improvement, and overall prostate health.

 

Can TURP cure BPH, or are additional treatments necessary in the long term?

TURP provides significant symptom relief and improves quality of life for many patients. While it does not cure BPH, it can effectively manage symptoms long-term. Additional treatments may be considered if symptoms recur or worsen over time.