Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) | Melbourne Urological Cancer Surgeon

A Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure performed to treat symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. TURP is one of the most effective procedures to relieve symptoms such as frequent urination, weak stream, difficulty starting or stopping urination, or incomplete bladder emptying.

How does a TURP work?

During a TURP, a special instrument called a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder). No external cuts are made.

The resectoscope allows Prof Lawrentschuk to:

Visualise the prostate and bladder
Use a small electrical loop to shave away excess prostate tissue
Remove tissue blocking the urinary flow

A catheter is then inserted to drain the bladder and flush out any blood or tissue fragments.

Why is TURP recommended?

TURP is usually recommended for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms due to BPH that are not well managed with medications. These symptoms may include:

Difficulty starting urination
Slow or interrupted urine flow
Urinary retention (inability to fully empty the bladder)
Frequent urination, particularly at night
Urinary tract infections due to retained urine

This procedure can greatly improve quality of life and prevent long-term complications such as bladder damage.

Preparing for your TURP

You will be contacted 1–2 weeks prior to your scheduled procedure with specific fasting instructions and hospital admission details. You will also receive a link to complete your online admission forms.

It is important to advise the rooms if you are taking any blood thinners or any prescribed medications for diabetes or weight loss purposes. The rooms can be contacted on 9329 1197

Following surgery

Hospital stay

You will be admitted on the day of surgery and remain in hospital for 1–2 nights, unless otherwise advised by Prof Lawrentschuk or the rooms.

Please note:

A urinary catheter will be in place to help drain urine and flush the bladder. Please do not be alarmed to see blood (coloured like red wine) in the catheter bag; this is normal.
Once bleeding has settled and you can urinate effectively, the catheter will be removed and you will be discharged. This usually happens 2-3 days post surgery.

Recovering at home

Once at home, you may still experience mild discomfort, this is part of the healing process. To ensure a speedy and smooth recovery, please remember to take it easy. For the first/second week you should avoid driving.

For the 4 weeks the following activities should be avoided/encouraged:

Ensure a high fibre diet to avoid constipation and straining as this may worsen or cause blood in the urine.
Drink plenty of water to keep the bladder flushed.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and stimulating drinks that are high in caffeine (such as coffee).
Avoid heavy lifting of anything greater than 3kgs.
Short walks on ground level are encouraged.
Avoid sitting for prolonged periods of time.
Avoid sexual activity.

Following the procedure, you may notice blood in the urine or experience a burning sensation while urinating for several days. Please note this is normal and these symptoms usually settle with time.

Possible side effects

Common and Expected Effects

Burning or stinging when urinating: Usually improves within a week.
Blood in urine: Pink or red urine is normal for a few days, please drink plenty of fluids and rest.
Clots in urine: Passage of small clots is normal. If you are not able to pass urine or there are large clots, please seek additional help.
Urgency or frequency: May occur initially due to bladder irritation and usually settles.
Retrograde ejaculation: Semen travels backwards into the bladder instead of out through the penis during orgasm. This is harmless and common after TURP.

Occasional Risks

Infection: UTIs or bladder infections may occur. Watch for fever, chills, or worsening urinary symptoms.
Temporary difficulty urinating: May require reinsertion of a catheter for a few days.
Scarring or narrowing of the urethra (stricture): May require further intervention.
Persistent bleeding: Rarely, a return to the hospital may be required to control bleeding.

Rare Risks

Loss of bladder control (incontinence): Usually temporary but may persist in some men.
Erectile dysfunction: Rare, as TURP typically does not affect the nerves controlling erections.
Perforation of the bladder: Very rare and would be managed promptly if identified.

When to seek help

Please contact Professor Lawrentschuk’s rooms at 9329 1197 or attend your nearest Emergency Department if you experience:

Heavy bleeding (bright red) or large clots in the urine that do not resolve with increased hydration.
Inability to urinate after catheter removal.
Fever above 38°C, chills, or severe abdominal pain.
Persistent or worsening burning or pain with urination.

Follow-up and monitoring

You will usually have a follow-up appointment with Prof Lawrentschuk within 6-8 weeks after surgery to assess your recovery, ensure the urinary symptoms are improving, and evaluate the need for further treatment or medication. Following this, you will be placed on surveillance where you will most likely be reviewed every 6 months for 2-3 years.

Please note that about 1 in 10 men who have a TURP will need further operation as the prostate tissue re- grows. However, this may take several years to occur.

If you have any queries, please use the contact details below:

MONDAY to FRDAY 8:30AM–4:00PM
Call the rooms at 9329 1197

AFTER HOURS
Contact Epworth Emergency on 03 9426 6666 or Royal Melbourne Emergency on 03 9342 7000.
You can also page Prof Lawrentschuk on 03 9387 1000.