Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a common surgical procedure to alleviate symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This procedure involves removing excess prostate tissue that may obstruct urine flow. Recovery from a TURP procedure varies, but generally follows a predictable course.
Hospital Stay and Immediate Aftermath
Following a TURP procedure, patients typically remain in the hospital for one to four days. A urinary catheter is usually inserted during the procedure and remains in place to drain urine and manage swelling. It also allows for continuous bladder irrigation, which helps flush out any blood or small clots. The urine drained through the catheter may appear pink or red, and some small clots are expected.
Patients might experience a sensation of needing to urinate, even with the catheter in place, or bladder spasms, which can cause discomfort. Pain is typically managed with medication, and severe pain is not usually expected. The catheter is generally removed after 24 to 48 hours, once initial swelling subsides and the patient can urinate independently.
Navigating Recovery at Home
Upon returning home, patients can expect a period of adjustment and continued healing. Common symptoms include frequent urination, an urgent need to urinate, and a burning sensation during urination. It is also normal to observe occasional blood in the urine, which might increase around 10 to 14 days post-operation as a scab from the treated area detaches. Drinking plenty of fluids is important during this time to help flush the bladder and prevent blood clots.
Activity restrictions prevent complications and support healing. Patients should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and prolonged sitting for several weeks. Driving is typically restricted for at least two weeks, or until pain medication is no longer needed. Regarding diet, avoiding irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can help reduce bladder irritation. Maintaining regular bowel movements is also advised, often with the help of stool softeners, to prevent straining which could lead to bleeding.
Timeline for Full Recovery
Full recovery from a TURP procedure typically takes between six weeks and three to six months, with significant improvement often seen within several weeks. Light activities, such as walking, can be resumed soon after returning home to promote circulation. Returning to work depends on the physical demands of the job, with some individuals able to return within one to three weeks if their work is not physically strenuous.
Urinary function and bladder control gradually improve. While immediate relief from obstructive symptoms may be felt, issues like urinary frequency and urgency can persist for several weeks or even months as the bladder adjusts. The internal prostatic urethra typically takes about six to seven weeks to fully heal.
What Can Affect Your Recovery and When to Get Help
Several factors influence recovery after a TURP procedure. A patient’s overall health, age, the size of the prostate tissue removed, and the presence of any pre-existing medical conditions impact recovery. The length of the surgical procedure and amount of irrigation fluid absorbed during surgery also impact recovery.
Contact a doctor immediately if you experience specific warning signs:
- High fever (100.4°F or 38°C or higher) or chills.
- Inability to urinate or a significant decrease in urine flow.
- Heavy bleeding with large clots or continuous bright red urine that does not clear with increased fluid intake.
- Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication.