Prostate Surgeries- Turp

Causes of Prostate Enlargement (BPH)

• Hormonal Changes: Aging causes an imbalance in testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), leading to prostate growth.
• Genetics: A family history of BPH increases the risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and high-fat diets.

Symptoms of BPH

• Difficulty starting urination (hesitancy).
• Weak or interrupted urine flow.
• Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia).
• Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
• Urinary tract infections due to retained urine.

The TURP Procedure

1. Preoperative Preparation:

• Blood tests, urine analysis, and imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to assess prostate size and rule out other conditions.
• Discontinue blood-thinning medications like aspirin or warfarin.
• Antibiotics may be given to prevent infections.

2. The Procedure:

• Performed under spinal or general anesthesia.
• A resectoscope (a thin, tube-like instrument) is inserted through the urethra to reach the prostate.
• An electric loop cuts away excess prostate tissue causing the obstruction.
• Removed tissue is flushed out through the resectoscope.

3. Post-Procedure:

• A temporary catheter is placed to drain urine while the area heals.

Advantages of TURP

• High success rate in relieving symptoms.
• Minimally invasive with no external incisions.
• Quick recovery time compared to open surgeries.
• Immediate improvement in urinary flow and bladder function.

Risks and Complications (Rare):

• Temporary difficulty urinating after catheter removal.
• Retrograde ejaculation (semen flows backward into the bladder).
• Urinary tract infections.
• Slight bleeding during or after surgery.
• Very rarely, erectile dysfunction or incontinence.

Recovery and Post-Surgery Care

• Hospital Stay: Typically 1–2 days.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to flush out the urinary system.
• Medications: Pain relievers and antibiotics as prescribed.
• Follow-up Visits: Regular check-ups to monitor recovery and ensure no residual prostate tissue is causing issues.

Outcomes of TURP

• Most patients experience significant symptom relief within days or weeks.
• Improvement in bladder function and overall urinary health.
• Long-term outcomes are excellent, with a low rate of recurrence of symptoms.

Conclusion

TURP is a safe and effective solution for managing moderate to severe BPH symptoms. With advancements in medical technology, the procedure offers rapid relief, minimal complications, and a quick return to daily activities, making it a reliable choice for treating prostate enlargement.