Transurethral resection of the prostate, also known as a TURP procedure, is one of the most common prostate surgeries used to treat cancer. This procedure is done in two ways, the “standard” procedure which uses a scalpel to remove prostate tissue, or the using electro-resection, which uses an electrified wire loop to remove tissue.
This procedure is minimally invasive, and there are no visible incisions requiring wound care after the procedure. It is an inpatientprocedure, with the patient staying overnight in the hospital at the minimum.
The TURP procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia. The penis and surrounding skin is cleaned with a solution to sterilize the skin as much as possible. The pubic area may also be shaved.
The surgeon begins by introducing a cytoscope or a resectoscope into the urethra. The instrument has a light and a camera, which allow to surgeon to visualize the procedure. The instruments use are typically half an inch in diameter and at least 12 inches long.
The tube-like instrument is advanced through the urethra until the prostate is reached. When it is in place, the surgeon removes sections of the prostate or the entire gland. This may be done with a cutting instrument or a wire that is electrified.
The surgery site is frequently flushed with irrigation solution, which will push any pieces of the prostate up into the bladder. This solution may have additives that prevent infection or minimize swelling.
When the surgery is completed, the instruments are removed and a foley catheter is inserted into the bladder. The pieces of the prostate that are in the bladder are then flushed from the body with urine, into the foley catheter collection bag.
There may be some blood in the urine in the days immediately following surgery, and the pieces of the prostate from the bladder may also be noted.
