Alternatives to TURP

There are many ways to treat enlarged prostate or BHP, and while TURP is the most common form of surgery, you should discuss your options with your doctor.
Mild symptoms of enlarged prostate can be treated with lifestyle changes, rather than will surgery. Not drinking in the evening, cutting out alcohol and caffeine, and getting regular exercise can all reduce BHP symptoms. Bladder training, to increase the amount of urine the bladder can hold is also possible.

More severe symptoms may require medication, such as finasteride. It is only when symptoms become too sever to be treated with medication, that a surgical procedure such as TURP will be considered.

Surgical Alternatives to TURP

During a TURP operation, part of the enlarged prostate tissue is cut away. However, there are some surgical alternatives to TURP:

• TUIP or Transurethral Incision of the Prostate is an option for men who are too ill for TURP, who have milder symptoms of BHP, or who still plan to have children as it does not carry such a high risk of retrograde ejaculation. It is similar operation to TURP but small slits are made in the prostate to relieve pressure on the urethra, rather than actually removing tissue.
  
• Open Prostatectomy is usually considered for men with very severe symptoms of BHP, and it involves removing the outer part of the prostate gland through an incision in the abdomen. It carries more risks and side effects than TURP.
  
• Laser Vaporisation is a fairly new technique, which is similar to TURP but involves burning away tissue rather than cutting it. It is minimally invasive and is often recommended for men who are too ill to undergo TURP.
  

Find out more about the TURP operation and what you can expect afterwards here.

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