TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate) – Questions & Answers

1. What is TURP?

TURP, or Transurethral Resection of the Prostate, is a surgical procedure used to treat men with enlarged prostate (also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH). It involves removing excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow through the urethra.

2. Who is a candidate for TURP?

TURP is recommended for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms from BPH, such as:

  • Difficulty starting urination

  • Weak urine stream

  • Frequent urination, especially at night

  • Incomplete bladder emptying

  • Urinary retention or recurrent infections

TURP is often suggested when medications are ineffective or not tolerated.

3. How is the TURP procedure performed?

  • Performed under spinal or general anesthesia

  • A thin instrument called a resectoscope is inserted through the penis and into the urethra

  • No incisions are made in the skin

  • The surgeon uses a heated wire loop to remove excess prostate tissue, restoring normal urine flow

The procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes.

4. What is recovery like after TURP?

  • Patients usually stay 1–2 days in the hospital

  • A urinary catheter is placed temporarily to help drain urine

  • Mild burning or blood in the urine is common for a few days

  • Most men return to normal activities within 2–4 weeks, though strenuous activity and sexual activity should be avoided during early healing

5. What are the benefits of TURP?

TURP is considered the gold standard for surgical treatment of BPH, offering:

  • Significant and lasting symptom relief

  • Improved urine flow

  • Reduced risk of urinary retention and infections

  • High success rates

6. What are the potential risks or side effects?

As with any surgery, TURP has risks, including:

  • Temporary bleeding or infection

  • Retrograde ejaculation (semen goes into the bladder during orgasm) – common but harmless

  • Temporary urinary urgency or incontinence

  • Rarely, erectile dysfunction or urethral stricture

Your urologist will discuss these risks and how they are managed.

7. Is TURP a permanent solution?

For most men, TURP provides long-term relief of BPH symptoms. However, in some cases, additional treatments may be needed years later if symptoms recur or if prostate tissue regrows.

8. Are there alternatives to TURP?

Yes. Depending on prostate size, health status, and preferences, alternatives include:

  • Medications

  • Minimally invasive procedures like UroLift®, Rezūm™, or laser therapy

  • Open or robotic prostatectomy for very large prostates

Your urologist can help determine the best option for your individual case.