A transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure that involves cutting away a section of the prostate gland through the penis, without the need for incisions. The procedure is carried out using a device called a resectoscope, which is a thin metal tube containing a light, camera, and loop of wire. The surgeon inserts the resectoscope into the urethra and guides it to the site of the prostate with the help of the light and camera. The loop of wire is then used to trim away excess prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. TURP is generally considered an option for men who have moderate to severe urinary problems that havent responded to medication.

Some reasons why a TURP may be needed include difficulty emptying the bladder, frequent urinary tract infections, bleeding from the prostate, bladder stones with prostate enlargement, extremely slow urination, and other urinary problems. The procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes to perform and is carried out under general or spinal anesthesia. After the procedure, the patient may experience temporary difficulty urinating, and a catheter may be inserted into the penis to carry urine out of the bladder until the patient can urinate on their own.

Risks of TURP can include temporary difficulty urinating, urinary tract infection, bleeding, retrograde ejaculation, and damage to internal organs and structures. However, the risk of TURP syndrome, which is water buildup during surgery, is estimated to be less than 1% and is likely to be lower with modern techniques.