Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) is a surgery that is used to treat various urinary problems because of an enlarged prostate. A resectoscope is inserted through the tip of the penis and the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder. A resectoscope is an instrument that allows the physician to see as well as insert tools. Through this tool, the physician is able to cut away the excess tissue in the prostate that is blocking the flow of urine. Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) is an option for men that have moderate to severe urinary problems and medication has not been working for you. Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) is considered to be the most effective treatment for an enlarged prostate. In some cases, Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) may not be the best option for you. Please speak to your physician about which treatment plan is best for you.

What is BPH?

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, is also called BPH or Prostate Gland Enlargement, is a very common problem in men, especially older men. This problem can cause multiple urinary problems. These problems can cause the block of flowing of the urine from the bladder. This can cause bladder infections, urinary tract infections, or various kidney problems. Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) can be a solution for the problem. This may or may not be the best solution for the problem. You will want to schedule an appointment with your physician about what solution will be the best for you.

Why is Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) Done

Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) is able to reduce the urinary symptoms that is caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. Some of these symptoms are:

• Difficulty starting to urinate
• Urinary tract infections
• Frequent need to urinate
• Urgent need to urinate
• Slow urination
• The feeling that you cannot empty your bladder
• Stopping and starting again while urinating
• Increased urination at night

Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) is also done to treat or prevent complications that occur with the blocked urine flow. These complications include:

• Blood in the urine
• Bladder stones
• Recurring urinary tract infections
• Kidney damage
• Bladder damage
• Inability to control urination
• Inability to urinate

Risks of Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT)

There are a few risks that are associated with Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT). Some men will require a follow-up treatment after Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) because symptoms may return. After the procedure, you may have trouble urinating for a few days following the procedure. Until you are able to urinate on your own, you will have a catheter. A catheter will be inserted into the penis and will carry urine out of the bladder. A urinary tract infection is possible after any prostate procedure. This infection becomes more common the longer the catheter is in place. In rare cases, erectile dysfunction is possible. Heavy bleeding is possible after the procedure. In rare cases, men will lose enough blood to require a blood transfusion. Rarely, men will lose control of their bladder. Lastly, it is very rare that the body will absorb too much of the fluid that is used to wash the surgery during Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT). This condition is called TURP syndrome or TUR syndrome. It can become life-threatening if it is not treated.

How to Prepare for Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT)

Before your surgery, your physician will ask that you end your medications that are used as blood-thinners. You will likely be given an antibiotic to prevent a urinary tract infection after the surgery. Typically, you are able to go home after the surgery, so you will need someone to drive you home. You should not work or do any strenuous activity for up to six weeks after the surgery. Your physician will be able to give you a better expectation of how much recovery time you will need.

The procedure will take between sixty to ninety minutes. You will be given general anesthesia. This means that you will be asleep for the duration of the surgery. If your physician recommends a spinal anesthesia, then you will be awake but not feel anything.

During the procedure, your physician will insert a resectoscope into the top of the penis and will be extended through the urethra. There will be no incisions on the body. The resectoscope will be used to trim the tissue from in the prostate. When these pieces are cut, an irrigating fluid will carry them into the bladder. They will be removed.

You are likely to stay in the hospital for one or two days. You will have a catheter because the swelling will block the urine flow. This will be removed within 48 hours. You may notice blood in the urine or irritating urinary symptoms. It is normal to see blood right after the surgery. If the blood becomes thick or begins to worsen, then you will want to speak to your physician. Blood clots can block the flow of urine. Painful urination will improve within eight weeks.

After surgery, your physician will likely recommend the following:

• Avoid taking your blood-thinning medications until your physician says otherwise
• Drink a lot of water to flush out the bladder
• Eat high fiber foods as you will not want to strain during a bowel movement
• Avoid strenuous activities
• Do not drive until your catheter has been removed

If you are unable to urinate, have a fever of 100.4 degrees, or notice bright red blood, then you will want to call your physician. If you have any sign of infection, then you will also want to inform your physician about what you are experiencing.

Results of Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT)

Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) will relieve symptoms very quickly. Men will experience a strong urine flow within a few days. You may be recommended for follow-up treatment to aid in easing symptoms. Transurethral Resection (TUR) (TURBT) may or may not be the best treatment for your BPH. You will want to talk to your physician about what treatment will be best for you.