Transurethral resection of the prostate, commonly known as TURP, is a well-established surgical treatment used to relieve urinary symptoms in men with enlarged prostate when medication or other minimally invasive treatments have not provided sufficient improvement.
TURP remains a gold standard treatment offered by Mr Rahim Kaba for managing bladder outflow obstruction, particularly in men with larger prostates or those with specific clinical needs.
TURP FAQs
How is TURP performed?
TURP is performed under spinal or general anaesthesia and involves passing a thin telescope (resectoscope) through the urethra to access the prostate directly, avoiding the need for external incisions. A fine electrical loop (diathermy loop) of wire is used to carefully remove the excess prostate tissue that is blocking the flow of urine, allowing the bladder to empty more effectively. Throughout the procedure, fluid is used to irrigate the area, maintaining a clear view and flushing away the removed tissue. Once the excess tissue is removed, any bleeding left in the cavity from the surgery is carefully cauterised (burned).
The surgery typically takes around 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the prostate and the complexity of the case. Following the procedure, a catheter is placed temporarily to help drain urine while the area heals, usually remaining in place for one to three days before removal. Most patients experience gradual improvement in urinary flow and symptoms over the following weeks.
Who is most suitable for TURP?
TURP may be recommended for men with moderate to severe urinary symptoms who have not responded adequately to medications or who are experiencing complications such as recurrent urinary retention, bladder stones, or kidney issues related to prostate enlargement. It may also be an appropriate option for men with larger prostates where other minimally invasive treatments may be less effective.
What will be discussed during your consultation?
During your consultation, Mr Kaba will carry out a thorough assessment to determine whether TURP is the right option for you, taking into account your prostate size, medical history, and personal treatment goals. As an experienced consultant urologist, Mr Kaba will guide you through your treatment choices with clear, personalised advice to help you make the best decision for your health and lifestyle.
Benefits of transurethral resection of the prostate
TURP has a long track record of success in improving urinary symptoms and quality of life for men with bladder outflow obstruction. By removing the excess tissue causing the blockage, TURP can treat issues such as a weak urinary stream, difficulty starting urination, and frequent or urgent urination. Many men find that their symptoms improve rapidly following the procedure, with continued improvement as the body heals.
One of the key advantages of TURP is its effectiveness in treating larger prostates, making it a reliable option when other minimally invasive treatments may not be suitable or have not achieved sufficient symptom relief. TURP also has a well-established safety profile, with the majority of patients experiencing significant improvements in urinary flow and a reduction in bothersome urinary symptoms.
Mr Rahim Kaba
Mr Rahim Kaba is a highly skilled Consultant Urological Surgeon practicing at Nuffield Heath Warwickshire Hospital in Leamington Spa. He also serves as an Honorary Clinical Lecturer at Warwick Medical School within the South Warwickshire NHS Foundation Trust (SWFT).
Mr Kaba treats urinary infections, male urinary/prostatic symptoms, PSA/prostate cancer investigations, haematuria, female incontinence, impotence, penile, and testicular issues.
He specialises in lower urinary tract dysfunction, offering advanced minimally invasive treatments such as REZUM, Urolift, conventional bipolar TURP, and Aquablation for men with lower urinary tract dysfunction in the West Midlands. He played a pivotal role in launching the Aquablation in the West Midlands and conducted the inaugural case.
