Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)

The prostate is a fibrous organ surrounding the urethra.
An enlarged prostate can compress the urethra diminishing urination.

A TURP - performed under a general or a spinal anesthesia - is a procedure by which a cystoscope is inserted into the penis through the urethra, and a specialized cutting tool, inserted through the cystoscope, is used to remove the prostate bit by bit. 

The blood vessels are then cauterized to control bleeding and a catheter is placed to drain the bladder the first few days postoperatively.

Post-op instructions

• Take life easy, relax. Nap frequently.
• Avoid aspirin and Motrin and/or ibuprofen, because they may increase bleeding.
• Avoid sex six weeks post-op.
• Avoid lifting more than 15 pounds approximately six weeks.
• Avoid strenuous activity (including housework, vacuuming, physical exercise, jogging, snow shoveling, yard work, and  contact sports) approximately six weeks.
• Dress comfortably.
• Drink plenty of liquids - at least eight ounces of fluids every hour while awake the first three weeks post-op.
• Do not sit for prolonged periods of time - more than an hour at a time.
• Do not hold urine for more than three hours. Urinate frequently.
• Do not drive until your doctor gives approval.
• Take prescribed medications as directed.

Concerns that are normal:

• Increased urinary frequency the first few weeks post-op
• Urine will initially appear quite bloody, but will clear with time. Blood or small clots in the urine may be noticeable for the first six weeks.
• During sexual intercourse, ejaculation will be retrograde - into the bladder. You should not engage in sexual activity for approximately six weeks.

Concerns that should be addressed at once:

• Bleeding not related to urination for more than four hours.
• Inability to urinate - If outside business hours, patient should go to the Emergency Room.
• Pain or bladder spasms not controlled with prescribed medication.
• Temperature greater than 101.5 for more than 48 hours.