Life Expectancy After TURP Surgery: What You Need To Know

TURP or Transurethral Resection of the Prostate, is a medical procedure that helps with enlarged prostate treatment. It is commonly used for men living with benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostate cancer, which helps improve the associated symptoms and quality of life. Are you undergoing such a procedure and are worried about the life expectancy after TURP surgery? Well, there are some side effects after such surgery which can be permanent while some can improve after some time. Let's explore the article that will guide you thoroughly on TURP treatment and how your life will be after it. Read on!

Life Expectancy After TURP Surgery

TURP is a surgical procedure primarily used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate gland becomes enlarged and obstructs urine flow. Here are the key points regarding life expectancy after TURP:

1. Impact on Overall Survival

• TURP is not a life-threatening procedure and does not directly reduce life expectancy

• The surgery is designed to improve quality of life by resolving urinary symptoms

• Most patients experience significant improvement in urinary function and overall well-being

2. Short-Term Survival Considerations

• Mortality risk during the procedure is very low, approximately 0.1% to 0.2%

• Immediate postoperative complications are rare with modern surgical techniques

• Most patients are discharged within 1-3 days after surgery

3. Long-Term Health Factors

• The surgery addresses urinary symptoms but does not treat underlying prostate health

• Patients should continue regular medical check-ups

• Managing overall health conditions like cardiovascular disease and diabetes remains crucial

4. Age and Pre-Existing Conditions

Life expectancy is more influenced by:

• Patient's age at the time of surgery

• Overall health status

• Presence of chronic medical conditions

• Lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, smoking)

5. Potential Benefits to Quality of Life

• Reduced urinary tract infections

• Improved sleep due to fewer nighttime bathroom visits

• Enhanced physical comfort

• Potential psychological benefits from symptom resolution

6. Recommended Follow-Up

• Regular prostate health screenings

• Monitoring for potential recurrence of BPH symptoms

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle

• Managing any concurrent health conditions

TURP Surgery Procedure

This is how the doctors perform the surgery:

Before surgery

Before the doctors start the surgery, you will be given anesthesia to make you feel numb and sleepy. You might also have spinal anesthesia that makes you numb but keeps you conscious. Moreover, you may be given antibiotics to stop infection.

During the procedure

Doctors insert the resectoscope through the penis tip that passes through the urethra towards the prostate gland. This device then helps identify and cut the excess tissue formed on the prostate gland that blocks the urine passage. It also releases a fluid at the same time that brings the tissue pieces into the bladder which are removed at the end of the surgery.

After the procedure

Doctors will place the catheter for about 24-48 hours because of the swelling that blocks the flow of urine. Once your swelling reduces and urination becomes comfortable, the catheter is removed. You will possibly stay for about 1-2 days in the hospital.

What is the Recovery Time After TURP Surgery?

After the TURP surgery, the recovery time may include 4 to 6 weeks. Avoid lifting heavy objects, engaging in sexual activities, or practicing intense exercises until your doctor decides. Moreover, if you are taking the pain medication prescribed after the treatment, do not drive or use any heavy machinery, as the medication can cause dizziness. If your job does not require much physical work, you might be able to start working after 2-3 weeks. Ask your doctor how often you should take a rest from work.

Potential Side Effects of TURP Surgery

Though the TURP procedure is safe, it can sometimes lead to some health complications, such as:

• Urethra or bladder injury

• Urinary tract infection

• Blood in the urine

• Painful urination

• Electrolyte abnormality (too much or insufficient minerals in the body)

• Erectile dysfunction (trouble getting or keeping a firm erection during intercourse)

• Retrograde ejaculation (when the semen gets pushed toward the bladder instead of coming out of the penis)

• Hemorrhage (Inflamed and swollen veins in your rectum and anus)

• TURP syndrome (too much absorption of fluid that is used to wash the prostate area in the bloodstream)

Note: If you find any of the above-mentioned complications, it is recommended to immediately consult with your doctor.

Precautions After TURP Surgery

After the TURP prostate surgery, healthcare providers may suggest practicing the following:

• Eat healthy foods: Some studies have proven fiber-rich diet is most beneficial for constipation. Fibrous foods also relieve pressure while pooping. Your doctor may recommend some stool softener for easy stool passing.

• Stay hydrated: Drink a lot of water, as it helps flush out the urine from your bladder.

• Avoid intense exercises: Don't practice heavy weight lifting for about 4-6 weeks or until the doctor advises. These activities can put a strain on the urethra.

• Don’t drive: It’s advised to avoid driving until the catheter is removed and pain medications aren’t stopped.

• Avoid sex: Do not perform sexual intercourse for 4 to 6 weeks as it may cause bleeding.

• Stop taking blood-thinning medications: According to research, blood-thinning medications should not be taken after TURP surgery. These medicines can cause more bleeding complications.

Note: If after the TURP surgery, you notice some blood in your urine, it is normal. However, thickened blood or blood clots in your urine, difficulty passing the urine, or high fever need immediate medical attention.

Final Thoughts

TURP surgery is the most recommended and successful treatment for an enlarged prostate gland and the symptoms associated with it. It can treat complications caused by blocked urine flow, such as bladder or kidney damage, recurring UTIs, bladder stones, etc. However, just like you, many people are worried about their life expectancy after TURP surgery. In general, some people might find challenges during sexual intercourse and some may experience issues in their sexual function like no sexual desire, trouble reaching orgasm, loss of sexual feeling, etc. If these complications continue for a long period, immediately consult with your doctor.

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