TUR-P Treatment for Enlarged Prostate Without an External Incision
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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in men, especially with increasing age. As the prostate grows larger, it can press on the urethra and cause urinary problems such as difficulty urinating, frequent urination, a weak urine stream, or a feeling that the bladder does not empty completely.
If symptoms worsen or medication no longer provides enough relief, a doctor may recommend TUR-P (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate). This procedure removes prostate tissue that is blocking the flow of urine through the urethra.
What Is TUR-P for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) becomes more common as men get older. An enlarged prostate can press against the urethra and interfere with urine flow, leading to symptoms such as difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, frequent urination, especially at night, or a feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied.
When symptoms become more severe or do not improve enough with medication, a doctor may consider TUR-P (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate).
During TUR-P, a specialized instrument is inserted through the urethra to reach the prostate. The surgeon removes the prostate tissue that is pressing on or blocking the urinary passage. This creates more space for urine to flow and helps relieve urinary obstruction.
TUR-P does not require an incision in the abdomen because the entire procedure is performed through the urethra. As a result, there is no external surgical wound. Tissue removed during the procedure can also be sent for pathological examination when appropriate.
Who May Be Suitable for TUR-P?
A doctor may consider TUR-P for patients with BPH who have significant urinary symptoms or complications related to urinary obstruction.
Symptoms That Do Not Improve Enough With Medication
TUR-P may be considered when medication has been used according to the treatment plan but urinary symptoms continue to interfere with quality of life.
Complications Related to Enlarged Prostate
Acute urinary retention
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Bladder stones
Blood in the urine related to the prostate
Urinary tract problems caused by long-term obstruction
Advantages of TUR-P
Standard Treatment
TUR-P has been used for many years and remains a well-established treatment for men with urinary obstruction caused by BPH.
Helps Relieve Urinary Symptoms
Removing prostate tissue that is blocking the urethra helps improve urine flow and may reduce symptoms such as difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, and incomplete bladder emptying.
No External Surgical Incision
Because the procedure is performed through the urethra, there is no need for an abdominal incision and no external surgical scar.
Removed Tissue Can Be Examined
Prostate tissue removed during TUR-P can be sent for pathological examination to assess the tissue for abnormalities
Long-Term Clinical Experience
TUR-P has been performed for many years, providing extensive clinical experience and long-term follow-up data regarding treatment outcomes.
Treatment results vary from person to person and depend on factors such as the severity of symptoms, prostate size, overall health, and the doctor’s clinical assessment.
What Patients Should Know Before TUR-P
Although TUR-P is widely used, it may not be the most suitable treatment for every patient. Certain factors require additional consideration, including:
A very large prostate
An increased risk of bleeding
The use of anticoagulants, blood thinners, or certain antiplatelet medications
The most appropriate treatment depends on each patient’s symptoms, the severity of urinary obstruction, prostate size, overall health, medical conditions, and other individual factors.
Preparing for TUR-P and Recovery After Treatment
Before the Procedure
Before treatment, patients undergo a detailed medical assessment. This may include blood tests, urine tests, and an evaluation of existing medical conditions.
A doctor may recommend temporarily stopping certain medications, such as anticoagulants or other blood-thinning medicines, depending on the patient’s condition and medication history.
Patients will also receive instructions about fasting before the procedure.
After the Procedure
After TUR-P, a urinary catheter is usually placed temporarily to help drain urine and flush out small amounts of blood or tissue remaining after the procedure.
During the early recovery period, patients may experience:
Mild burning or discomfort during urination
More frequent urination
A small amount of blood in the urine
These symptoms generally improve as the urinary tract heals.
Patients typically stay in the hospital for around 2–3 days, although the actual length of stay depends on recovery, overall health, and the doctor’s assessment.
Evaluation and Treatment Planning for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Treatment for BPH should be planned according to each patient’s condition. Doctors consider several factors, including the severity of urinary symptoms, the degree of urinary obstruction, prostate size, test results, existing medical conditions, current medications, and any BPH-related complications.
Urology and Men’s Health Center at Vejthani International Hospital provides comprehensive care for patients with urinary and prostate conditions, from initial evaluation and treatment planning to follow-up care and recovery after treatment.
TUR-P is one of the established treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia. By removing prostate tissue that blocks the urinary passage through an endoscopic procedure performed via the urethra, TUR-P helps improve urine flow without an external surgical incision.
The procedure may be considered for patients with significant urinary symptoms, symptoms that do not improve enough with medication, or complications related to BPH. An evaluation by a urologist helps determine whether TUR-P or another treatment option is the most appropriate choice based on the patient’s prostate size, symptoms, overall health, and individual clinical needs.
FAQ
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for TUR-P?
TUR-P is generally considered for men with an enlarged prostate who experience urinary symptoms that interfere with daily life, such as difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying. It may also be recommended when medication does not provide enough relief or when urinary obstruction leads to complications.
Does TUR-P Require an External Surgical Incision?
No. TUR-P is performed through the urethra using a specialized surgical instrument. Since the procedure does not involve an abdominal incision, there is no external surgical wound or scar.
How Long Is the Hospital Stay After TUR-P?
Most patients stay in the hospital for approximately 2–3 days after TUR-P. The actual length of stay varies depending on the patient’s overall health, recovery progress, and the doctor’s assessment.
Does TUR-P Affect Sexual Function?
TUR-P does not typically cause erectile dysfunction, but it can affect ejaculation. One of the more common side effects is retrograde ejaculation, a condition in which semen flows backward into the bladder instead of leaving the body through the penis. Although this is generally harmless, it can affect fertility. Patients should discuss potential sexual and reproductive side effects with their doctor before undergoing treatment.
How Soon Does Urination Improve After TUR-P?
Many patients notice an improvement in urine flow soon after TUR-P. During the early recovery period, mild burning during urination, increased urinary frequency, or small amounts of blood in the urine are common. These symptoms usually improve gradually as the urinary tract heals.
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