Medicines and endoscopic surgery such as TURP for an enlarged prostate (BPH) causing weak flow, frequent urination or difficulty passing urine.
Overview
The prostate is a gland below the bladder in men. It commonly enlarges with age, a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which can press on the urinary passage and make passing urine difficult.
Many men are helped by medicines. When symptoms are severe or complications occur, endoscopic surgery such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) removes the obstructing tissue without an external cut.
Who needs this treatment?
- Weak urine stream, hesitancy or dribbling
- Frequent urination, especially at night
- A feeling of incomplete emptying
- Sudden inability to pass urine (urinary retention)
- Recurrent infections, bladder stones or kidney problems due to obstruction
Benefits
- Improved urine flow and fewer night-time visits to the toilet
- Relief from urinary retention
- No external surgical cut with endoscopic surgery
How it is done
Before the procedure
Assessment includes examination, urine tests, ultrasound, a urine flow test and a PSA blood test where appropriate.
During the procedure
TURP is done under spinal or general anaesthesia using a telescope passed through the urinary passage to remove the obstructing prostate tissue.
After the procedure
A urinary catheter is kept for a day or two. Most men go home within a few days.
Recovery and aftercare
Most men return to normal activities within two to three weeks.
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid heavy lifting and straining for a few weeks
- Some blood in the urine can occur for a few weeks; report heavy bleeding or clots
Frequently asked questions
No. BPH is not cancer. Your urologist may advise tests such as PSA to check for prostate cancer separately.
This page gives general information. Whether a treatment is right for you, and what it involves, depends on your condition; your doctor will explain the options after examining you.