TURP video

Whilst under general or spinal anaesthetic a wire loop is introduced through a cystoscope into the prostatic urethra. A diathermy current is passed through the wire loop, which cuts the prostatic tissue. The obstructing tissue is cut away as chips that are washed out of the bladder, until there is a good unobstructed passage through the prostate. Haemostasis is achieved by diathermy, but blood loss can be significant and can occasionally lead to a blood transfusion. A urethral catheter is used for a day or more post-op and initially saline is irrigated through the catheter to wash out any blood. Most patients are discharged home catheter free, although some will require a period a catheterisation.