What is TURP?

A transurethral resection of the prostate, also known as TURP, is a surgical procedure that involves cutting away part of the prostate.

The prostate is a small gland in the pelvis. It is found between the penis and bladder and surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the penis.

If the prostate becomes enlarged, it can put pressure on the bladder and urethra. This can cause symptoms that affect passing urine.

Read NHS 111 Wales information about TURP

Why TURP is carried out

TURP is often recommended when prostate enlargement, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia, causes troublesome symptoms and does not respond to treatment with medication.

Symptoms that may improve after TURP include:

  • problems starting to urinate
  • a weak urine flow, or stopping and starting while passing urine
  • having to strain to pass urine
  • needing to urinate often
  • waking up often during the night to urinate
  • a sudden urge to urinate
  • being unable to fully empty your bladder

How TURP is performed

TURP is carried out using a device called a resectoscope. This is a thin metal tube containing a light, camera and loop of wire.

The resectoscope is passed along the urethra until it reaches the prostate. This means no cuts need to be made in the skin.

The loop of wire is heated with an electric current and used to cut away the section of prostate causing the symptoms.

A thin tube called a catheter is then inserted into the urethra to pump fluid into the bladder and flush away pieces of prostate that have been removed.

General or spinal anaesthetic is used during the procedure, so you should not feel pain while it is being carried out.

Recovering from TURP

You will usually need to stay in hospital for 1 to 3 days after the operation.

The catheter used during the operation will usually be left in place while you are in hospital. This is because the urethra may be swollen and you may not be able to pass urine normally at first.

It is common to feel tired and under the weather for a week or two after going home. Most men are up and about after this time, but you will usually need to take things easy for 4 to 8 weeks.

You may be advised to stay off work and avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, driving and sex for at least a few weeks.

It is normal to have some difficulty passing urine and some blood in your urine for a few weeks. These symptoms should improve as you recover.

When to get medical advice

Contact your hospital clinic, GP surgery or NHS 111 Wales if you are concerned about symptoms after your procedure.

Call 111 for urgent medical advice. Call 999 in an emergency.

Possible risks of TURP

In most cases, TURP is a safe procedure and the risk of serious complications is very small.

Possible risks can include:

  • retrograde ejaculation, where semen goes backwards into the bladder during ejaculation
  • temporary loss of bladder control, also known as urinary incontinence
  • erectile dysfunction
  • difficulty passing urine
  • urinary tract infections, also known as UTIs

Your hospital team should explain the possible benefits and risks before your procedure.

Alternatives to TURP

There are a number of alternatives to TURP. Some may be just as effective with a lower risk of complications, but they are not suitable for everyone and may not be available in every hospital.

Alternatives may include:

  • Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, also known as HoLEP: a laser is used to cut away excess prostate tissue.
  • Transurethral laser resection or vaporisation of the prostate: a laser is used to burn away prostate tissue.
  • Prostatic urethral lift implants: implants hold the enlarged prostate away from the urethra to help relieve urinary symptoms.

Your doctor or specialist will discuss which treatment options may be suitable for you.

Further information

For more information about TURP, including how it is performed, recovery, risks and alternatives, visit NHS 111 Wales.

NHS 111 Wales: TURP