TURP (Transurethral Resection Of The Prostate) In Singapore
TURP is a well-established surgical treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It involves removing excess prostate tissue that blocks urine flow using a resectoscope inserted through the urethra. This procedure offers effective symptom relief and long-term results.
Medically reviewed by Dr Ho Siew Hong
Senior Consultant Urologist
MBBS (NUS), FRCS (Edinburgh, Glasgow), FAMS (Urology), Singapore Board Certified Urologist
TURP uses an instrument called a resectoscope to trim and remove parts of the enlarged prostate via the urethra. The resected protate pieces are aspirated out through the scope and sent for pathology analysis. There are no external incisions. It remains the gold standard for men with moderate to severe urinary obstruction due to BPH.
- Persistent urinary symptoms from BPH, not responding to medical therapy
- Urinary retention needing inseriton of urinary catheter or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Bladder stones or bleeding from the prostate
- Significant improvement in urine flow and symptom relief
- Long-term effectiveness for BPH
- No external cuts or stitches
- Improved bladder emptying and quality of life
- General or spinal anaesthesia is administered
- A resectoscope is inserted through the urethra
- Excess prostate tissue is removed using an electric loop and bleeding is controlled
- Irrigation fluid flushes out debris
- A urinary catheter is placed for bladder drainage
- Hospital stay of 1–2 days
- Catheter usually removed within 1–3 days
- Resume light activity in 1 week; full recovery in 4–6 weeks
- Blood in urine will be lighter and clear completely by 2 weeks
- Avoid straining, lifting, or sexual activity initially
- Follow-up for symptom monitoring and flow tests
- Temporary blood in urine or burning sensation
- Urinary tract infection or retention
- Retrograde ejaculation (dry orgasm)
- Rare: incontinence or urethral stricture
Restore Comfort and Urinary Health
Persistent urinary symptoms can affect daily life and sleep quality. Schedule a consultation with Dr Ho Siew Hong to discuss effective solutions for prostate enlargement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ejaculation will be totally dry, but erection and orgasm is often preserved.
Mild discomfort is experienced while the in-dwelling catheter is in place. Upon removal of the catheter, mild to moderate discomfort is experienced during each passage of urine. This usually resolves 2-3 days after the catheter is removed.
Most men can resume light duties within 1–2 weeks.
Results often last many years and only 20% of men will require another TURP surgery for regrowth 10-15 years later.
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