Transurethral Resection Of Prostate
In Glens Falls, NY

Understanding TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)

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A TURP, or Transurethral Resection of the Prostate, is a common surgical procedure used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that can obstruct the flow of urine and cause symptoms such as weak stream, frequent urination (especially at night), urgency, and incomplete bladder emptying.

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During a TURP, excess prostate tissue that is blocking the urethra is removed using a surgical instrument inserted through the tip of the penis. This allows urine to flow more easily and can significantly improve quality of life.

Why TURP is Done TURP is typically recommended when medication is no longer effective or when symptoms become moderate to severe. It may also be indicated if there are complications from BPH, such as recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder stones, or kidney problems due to urinary retention.

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Risks and Considerations

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As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks associated with TURP. These may include:

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• Bleeding during or after the procedure

• Infection

• Temporary difficulty urinating

• Retrograde ejaculation (semen flows backward into the bladder)

• Erectile dysfunction (less common)

• Urinary incontinence (usually temporary)

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I will discuss these risks with you and answer any specific concerns you may have prior to surgery. In most cases, the benefits of the procedure significantly outweigh the risks, especially for men with severe urinary symptoms.

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What to Expect on the Day of Your TURP Surgery

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If you are scheduled to undergo a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP), this page will walk you through what to expect on the day of your procedure.

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Before Surgery On the day of your surgery, you will arrive at the hospital or surgical center in the morning. You will meet with your surgical team and anesthesia provider, who will review the procedure and answer any remaining questions. TURP is typically performed under spinal or general anesthesia, depending on your specific case and medical history.

During the Procedure TURP is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require any external incisions. Using a specialized scope inserted through the urethra, the obstructing prostate tissue is trimmed away to improve urinary flow. The surgery usually takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

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After Surgery After the procedure, you will be monitored in the recovery area as the anesthesia wears off. A catheter will be placed into your bladder to allow urine and any residual blood to drain. This catheter typically remains in place for a few days.

Discharge and Recovery Most patients are able to go home the same day with the catheter in place. Before discharge, you will be given detailed instructions on how to care for the catheter at home. In many cases, the catheter can be removed at home by following your doctor’s guidance, or it can be removed during a brief follow-up visit to the clinic after a few days.

Some patients may need to stay overnight for observation, especially if there is more bleeding than expected or other medical considerations that require monitoring. This decision is always made with your safety and comfort in mind.

What to Expect at Home It is normal to experience some burning with urination, urgency, or mild blood in the urine for a short period after the catheter is removed. Most patients begin to notice improvements in their urinary symptoms within a few weeks as healing progresses.

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Our goal is to make this process as smooth and comfortable as possible, and we are always available to answer your questions. If you experience significant pain, large amounts of bleeding, or difficulty urinating after your catheter is removed, please contact our office immediately.