Revised 9/1/2026
Published 9/2/2026
The transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) and transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) are endoscopic procedures aimed at facilitating urine flow by reducing urethral stricture caused by prostatic hyperplasia. These procedures are performed through the urethra without external surgical incisions. TURP is the most commonly used surgical treatment for prostatic hyperplasia. In TURP, hyperplastic prostatic tissue is removed, whereas in TUIP, tissue is not removed; instead, urine flow is facilitated by widening the constricted area.
Surgery may be considered, for example, when:
The choice of treatment is influenced by, among other things, the size of the prostate, the severity of the symptoms, and general health. Resection is particularly suitable for treating urinary obstruction caused by a medium-sized or large prostate, while incision is generally suitable for a smaller prostate that causes urinary symptoms due to constriction.
Alongside resection and incision, minimally invasive treatments can also be considered. In Rezūm water vapour therapy, the excess tissue is treated with water vapour, and in iTind, a temporary treatment device is placed in the urethra area. They are performed under local anaesthesia and no tissue is removed, so recovery is generally lighter.
During the appointment, a urologist evaluates your symptoms, the size of your prostate, and the need for any necessary further examinations. Based on this information, the most suitable form of treatment for your situation is chosen.
You will receive individual instructions on how to prepare, including eating, drinking, medication, and arriving at the hospital. Current medications and other factors affecting the procedure will be reviewed before surgery. The use of blood-clotting medications will also be taken into account, and you will receive instructions from the physician regarding their possible discontinuation.
Prostate resection and incision are usually performed under spinal anaesthesia or general anaesthesia. The appropriate form of anaesthesia is chosen individually so that the procedure can be performed painlessly.
Prostate resection and incision are performed transurethrally with a cystoscope.
Prostate resection (TURP): The urologist removes overgrown prostate tissue using an electric loop. When the tissue obstructing the urethra is removed, urine flow becomes easier.
Prostate incision (TUIP): Overgrown prostate tissue is not removed. Instead, the constricted area is widened by making incisions in the prostate area using electric current.
After the procedure, a flushing catheter is usually left in the bladder for a short period. The purpose of the catheter is to prevent blood clots from forming and to ensure the flow of urine. After the surgery, overnight monitoring is usually recommended. Upon discharge, you will receive individual instructions to support your recovery and information about possible follow-up appointments.
Recovery is individual, but most people return to their normal daily activities in a few days or a week. However, heavy physical exertion, such as vigorous exercise or heavy lifting, should be avoided for about 2–4 weeks.
Upon discharge, you will receive more detailed instructions regarding recovery, avoiding exertion, and when to contact the treating unit.
After the operation, blood may appear in the urine, urination may sting, and the need to urinate may be more frequent or sudden than usual. The symptoms generally ease as recovery progresses. Possible adverse effects also include bleeding, urinary tract infection, and temporary urinary incontinence. Serious complications are rare.
After prostate resection or incision, ejaculation may change so that the semen enters the urinary bladder instead of being ejaculated through the penis. This is called retrograde ejaculation. It is generally harmless, but the change may be permanent. The orgasm usually still feels normal, even if no semen comes out at all.
For most patients, urination becomes significantly easier after the operation. The urine stream becomes stronger, the bladder empties better, and the need to urinate decreases. Nocturia may also decrease, which can improve sleep quality and quality of life.
The relief of symptoms and recovery occur gradually, and the outcome of the treatment varies individually.
You can also leave us your contact details and tell us which surgery or minor procedure you are interested in. We will contact you as soon as possible.
Recovery is individual, but most people return to normal daily activities within a few days or weeks. Strenuous physical exertion is recommended to be avoided for about 2–4 weeks.
For many patients, medication can be reduced or stopped completely after successful treatment. The decision is always made individually based on the attending physician's assessment.
The most suitable treatment depends on factors such as the size of the prostate, the severity of symptoms, and general health. TURP is generally suitable for treating urinary obstruction caused by a medium-sized or large prostate, while TUIP is generally suitable for a smaller prostate. Based on examinations, the urologist will assess which method is better suited to your situation.
Prostate resection is an established surgical treatment that can effectively and permanently alleviate urinary symptoms. The advantage of less invasive treatments may be a less burdensome procedure and faster recovery, but with a higher risk of reoperation.
The most suitable treatment depends on factors such as prostate size, symptoms, and health status. Based on examinations, a urologist will assess which treatment method is best suited to your situation.
The goal of the procedures is long-term relief of symptoms. Although recurrence of symptoms is possible, most patients receive long-lasting help from the treatment.
