When Procedure is Used

A transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is performed to treat urinary tract problems that are caused by an enlarged prostate. These problems include the feeling of a frequent and urgent need to urinate, difficulty and/or slow urination, and urinary tract infections. A blockage of urine flow can also be treated with TURP. Transurethral resections of the bladder (TURBT) are performed to check for the presence of cancer in the bladder.

During Surgery

You may be given either general anesthesia for these procedures to help you relax and sleep or spinal anesthesia, in which case you will remain conscious. The surgeon will insert the resectoscope into the tip of the penis through the urethra and into the prostate (TURP) or bladder (TURBT). The resectoscope trims away tissue according to the procedure being performed and allows it to be done without the need to make an incision in your abdomen.

Risks

The risk of complications is very low. However, potential risks might include

• allergic reactions to medications
• difficulty holding urine or urination
• urinary tract infections
• bleeding
• injury to surrounding tissues

Benefits

• stronger urine flow (TURP)
• decrease in urinary tract infections (TURP)
• noninvasive assessment for bladder cancer (TURBT)