TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)

The TURP means transurethral resection of the prostate. This is considered the gold standard treatment for enlargement of the prostate. During this one hour operation, the center core of the prostate is removed through the urethra. This allows free passage of urine out of the bladder to improve symptoms of urinary obstruction. The procedure requires general or spinal anesthesia, but post operative discomfort is quite minor.

Before surgery, you must stop all blood thinning medication for one week. These include Aspirin, Vitamin E, Motrin, Advil, Naprosyn, Coumadin, Ticlid, Plavix, Ibuprofen, Alka-Seltzer, and Alleve.

No food or water is allowed after midnight before surgery. Any medications allowed by your doctor may be taken with a small sip of water on the morning of the surgery.

Surgery usually requires an overnight stay in the hospital. A catheter is placed at the time of surgery and removed in the office three days after the operation. You will be taught how to manage the Catheter and tubing before you leave the hospital.

After the surgery, you will receive a prescription for antibiotics and for stool softener. It is vital to avoid constipation. Milk of magnesia can be added to the regimen for additional effect.

Additional Instructions:

• Do not drive for one week
• Do not lift heavy (greater than 20 lbs.) objects or strain for one month
• Abstain from ejaculation for one month

It is normal to pass occasional blood clots and see some blood in the urine for the first eight weeks. Severe bleeding or fever (temp. greater than 100) should be reported to the doctor.
Burning and frequency are expected for one or two weeks, but should be reported to the doctor at the post operative visit. This visit will be scheduled one week after Catheter removal.

 

If you have any questions, please feel free to call our office.

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