Transurethral prostate resection (TURP) Urologic Surgery

Transurethral prostate resection (TURP) is a surgery that removes part of the prostate through the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.

Transurethral prostate resection (TURP) procedure illustration

Overview

Transurethral prostate resection (TURP) is a surgery that removes part of the prostate through the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body. A small camera and a cutting loop are passed through the penis to trim extra prostate tissue that blocks urine flow. There are no cuts on the skin. TURP is commonly done for an enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), when symptoms are bothersome or cause complications. The goal is to improve urine flow and reduce problems like frequent urination, weak stream, and trouble starting or stopping.

Overview Preparation Clinical Info Recovery FAQ References

Also known as: TURP, Transurethral resection of the prostate, Prostate resection

Recovery
7–42 days
Return to Work
7–21 days

Preparation & Next Steps

Everything you need to know before and after your procedure

Before Care

  • Expect a pre-op evaluation that may include urine testing, blood work, and possibly an electrocardiogram
  • Review all medicines and supplements with the surgical team, especially blood thinners and diabetes drugs
  • Plan for instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before anesthesia
  • Arrange a ride home and help at home for the first day or two
  • Confirm insurance authorization and any required pre-surgical clearance
  • Discuss catheter use after surgery and plan for basic supplies at home
  • Bring a list of allergies and prior reactions to anesthesia or antibiotics
  • If you use a CPAP for sleep apnea, plan to bring it if staying overnight
  • Set up time off work and limit heavy lifting during early recovery
  • Ask how to manage current prostate or bladder medicines around the time of surgery

After Care

  • A catheter is often in place for 1 to 3 days; follow the clinic’s instructions for bag emptying and hygiene
  • Expect some blood in urine and mild burning for 1 to 2 weeks; drinking water helps keep urine light pink
  • Walk short distances several times a day and gradually increase activity as energy returns
  • Avoid heavy lifting, straining, or high-impact exercise until your clinician says it is safe
  • Take prescribed medicines as directed by your care team and finish any antibiotics if given
  • Use stool softeners if recommended to avoid straining with bowel movements
  • Hold off on sexual activity until cleared by your clinician, often a few weeks
  • Do not drive while taking prescription pain medicines that cause drowsiness
  • Schedule and attend follow-up visits, including catheter removal if applicable
  • Contact a clinician for fever, worsening pain, heavy bleeding with clots, inability to urinate, or signs of infection

Clinical Information

Important medical details about this procedure

Indications

  • Moderate to severe urinary symptoms from BPH
  • Urinary retention that does not improve
  • Repeated urinary tract infections related to blockage
  • Bladder stones or bladder damage from long-term obstruction
  • Blood in urine due to prostate enlargement
  • Kidney problems caused by blocked urine flow

Alternatives

  • Watchful waiting with symptom tracking
  • Medicines such as alpha blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors
  • Prostatic urethral lift (UroLift)
  • Water vapor therapy (Rezum)
  • Laser procedures such as HoLEP or PVP
  • Aquablation
  • Prostatic artery embolization
  • Intermittent or long-term catheter use
  • Simple prostatectomy for very large prostates

Risks

  • Bleeding or blood clots in the urine
  • Infection of the urine or prostate
  • Temporary burning, urgency, or difficulty urinating
  • Retrograde ejaculation (semen goes into the bladder)
  • Erectile dysfunction or decreased sexual function
  • Urinary incontinence or leakage
  • Urethral stricture or bladder neck contracture
  • Need for another procedure in the future
  • TUR syndrome (low blood sodium from fluid absorption), uncommon with modern techniques

Contraindications

  • Active urinary tract infection
  • Uncontrolled bleeding disorders
  • Inability to pause certain blood thinners when required
  • Severe medical conditions that make anesthesia unsafe
  • Urethral stricture that blocks scope passage
  • Suspected or confirmed prostate cancer needing different management

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery

Most people feel better over 1 to 2 weeks, with urine stream and urgency improving as swelling settles. Full healing and stable results often take 4 to 6 weeks.

Typical Range

7–42 days

Return to Work

7–21 days

Recovery Milestones

Day 0–3

Catheter in place; short walks indoors; rest and hydrate

Day 3–7

Catheter often removed; continue light activity and avoid straining

Day 7–14

Resume desk work and routine errands if energy allows

Day 14–28

Increase walking and light exercise; avoid heavy lifting

Day 28–42

Gradually return to vigorous exercise and heavy lifting if cleared by your clinician

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and expert answers about this procedure

How is TURP performed?

A scope is passed through the urethra. A wire loop uses electric current to cut away extra prostate tissue. The tissue pieces are flushed out and no skin incisions are made.

How long does the procedure take?

Many TURP procedures take about 60 to 90 minutes, but timing varies with prostate size and technique.

Will I have a catheter after TURP?

Yes, a urinary catheter is commonly left in for 1 to 3 days to help urine drain while swelling decreases.

How soon will my symptoms improve?

Many people notice a stronger stream soon after the catheter is removed. Burning and urgency can take a few weeks to settle.

Can TURP affect sexual function?

Retrograde ejaculation is common after TURP. Changes in erections are possible but less common.

Is TURP done inpatient or outpatient?

Some centers do TURP as same-day surgery, while others keep patients overnight for monitoring.

What type of anesthesia is used?

General or spinal anesthesia is typically used. The choice depends on health factors and surgical planning.