Understanding TURP for Prostate Cancer: Procedure & Purpose

TURP, or transurethral resection of the prostate, is a surgical procedure that removes a portion of the prostate tissue. While typically used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), the procedure is sometimes used for prostate cancer patients in preparation for prostate cancer treatments or in place of a radical prostatectomy when a patient cannot have the more invasive surgery.

Procedure

• The TURP procedure removes a portion of the prostate gland with a cutting loop inserted through the urethra using a resectoscope. It is performed under general anesthetic on an outpatient basis, although some patients will remain in the hospital overnight.

Effects

• The TURP procedure does not cure prostate cancer. Instead, it lessens the effect of symptoms of the disease to make a patient more comfortable or make more room for other treatment options.

Risks

• The TURP procedure carries a risk of blood clots, impotence, incontinence and urinary tract infections.

Side Effects

• Bupa indicates that side effects of the procedure include retrograde ejaculation, blood in the urine, an urgent need to urinate, and burning during urination.

Recovery

• Patients will wear a catheter until they can fully empty the bladder. Patients can resume normal activities after two weeks, and most patients are fully recovered after six weeks.