Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP): best clinics abroad

Transurethral resection of the prostate, or TURP, removes prostate tissue that obstructs urine flow. The surgeon reaches the gland through the urethra and uses an electrical loop to remove small pieces, creating a wider channel without an abdominal incision. It is commonly considered for bothersome symptoms or complications of benign prostate enlargement when medicines are insufficient or unsuitable. It removes the obstructing tissue rather than the entire prostate.

Assessment must establish whether prostate obstruction explains the symptoms: bladder weakness or other urinary conditions can limit improvement after surgery. TURP is different from radical prostatectomy for cancer, although it can sometimes relieve obstruction in someone with cancer. Patients may seek care abroad to compare surgical options and obtain an experienced urology team's assessment. Planning should cover anaesthesia, catheter care, tissue examination, sexual and fertility implications, and access to help after discharge. A stronger stream does not guarantee that urgency or nighttime urination will disappear immediately.

When surgery is considered

TURP may help when an enlarged prostate causes persistent difficulty passing urine, retention or other complications. The urologist assesses prostate size, symptoms, kidney function and bladder emptying. Urine tests, flow measurements and ultrasound may be used; additional tests depend on the findings. Medicines, laser procedures and other approaches are alternatives in selected cases. Choosing treatment within urology requires understanding both obstruction and bladder function.

Preparation and consent

Provide previous urinary test results, catheter history, allergies and a complete medication list. The team gives individual instructions about blood thinning medicines and fasting; do not stop treatment independently. An anaesthetist assesses suitability for general or spinal anaesthesia. Discuss ejaculation, fertility plans, erections and the possibility of persistent urinary symptoms before agreeing to surgery. Any suspected infection or concern about cancer requires assessment.

How TURP is performed

A resectoscope passes through the urethra into the prostate. The surgeon removes obstructing tissue in small pieces and controls bleeding. The tissue is sent for microscopic examination. A catheter drains the bladder afterwards and may allow irrigation to clear blood and clots. Catheter removal depends on bleeding, swelling and the ability to pass urine; some patients need it reinserted or leave hospital with it temporarily.

Recovery and possible complications

Burning, urgency and blood in the urine can occur while the internal wound heals. Bladder symptoms may settle gradually. Follow the team's advice on fluids, medicines, lifting, activity and sex, accounting for other medical conditions. There is no external wound, but recovery still needs time.

Risks include infection, significant bleeding, urinary retention, urethral or bladder neck narrowing, leakage and erection problems. Retrograde ejaculation, with semen entering the bladder, can affect fertility. Symptoms can persist or recur and further treatment may be needed. Fever, inability to urinate, a catheter that stops draining, severe pain or heavy bleeding with clots needs prompt medical assessment.

Follow-up, travel and costs

Arrange discussion of the pathology result and review of urinary recovery. Before travelling home, confirm catheter arrangements, emergency contacts and when travel is appropriate. Costs vary with assessment, anaesthesia, the surgical approach, hospital care, catheter management and complications; ask which follow-up services are included.

Frequently asked questions

Does TURP remove the whole prostate?

No. It removes tissue obstructing the urinary channel.

Does it prevent prostate cancer?

No. Remaining prostate tissue still needs assessment when clinically indicated.

Will every urinary symptom improve?

No. Bladder dysfunction can persist despite successful relief of obstruction.