What is transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)?
Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is surgery to remove a section of the prostate gland. This is done when the prostate gets too large. The prostate gland is a walnut-sized organ in men that grows around the opening between the bladder and the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder, through the penis, to outside the body. The prostate gland produces most of the fluid in semen. When the prostate gets too large, it can press on the urethra. This can make it hard for you to urinate. You may feel like you have to urinate often. You may have trouble starting and stopping your urine stream. Your urine may not come out in a strong, steady stream. Or it may feel like you cannot completely empty your bladder. This surgery may help you have less trouble urinating. You may have better control over starting and stopping your urine stream and feel like you get more relief when you urinate.
