TURP remains an important BPH operation when prostate anatomy and symptoms call for tissue removal.
Transurethral resection of the prostate removes obstructing prostate tissue through the urethra. It has a long track record and remains a reference point for many BPH comparisons, but it must be weighed against newer options, prostate size, bleeding risk, sexual-function tradeoffs, and recovery expectations.
Who this may fit
- Men with obstructive urinary symptoms where tissue removal is appropriate.
- Patients with anatomy or symptom severity that makes office procedures less suitable.
- Men comparing TURP with HoLEP, Aquablation, Rezum, UroLift, and robotic simple prostatectomy.
Evaluation before treatment
Evaluation should confirm that symptoms are truly driven by obstruction rather than overactive bladder alone.
Prostate size, median lobe, bladder findings, medications, anticoagulants, and sexual-function priorities change the discussion.
Recovery and follow-up
Catheter use, bleeding, urinary burning, urgency, and activity restriction are part of the preoperative discussion.
Retrograde ejaculation is a common counseling point for tissue-removing BPH procedures.
Common questions
Is TURP still used?
Yes. It remains a standard BPH operation for selected patients, though newer options may fit some men better.
Can TURP affect ejaculation?
Yes. Retrograde ejaculation is a known risk and should be discussed before surgery.
Related patient guides
Sources