Prostate removal

Definition

The prostate gland is an organ at the base of the bladder in men. The tissues in the gland may need to be surgically removed or destroyed if the prostate is swollen.

See also: Benign prostatic hypertrophy

Alternative Names

Prostatectomy; Suprapubic prostatectomy; Transurethral resection of the prostate; TURP; Open prostatectomy; Laser prostatectomy; Transurethral needle ablation; TUNA

Indications

Prostate removal may be recommended for:

  • Inability to completely empty the bladder (urinary retention)
  • Recurrent bleeding from the prostate
  • Bladder stones with prostate enlargement
  • Extremely slow urination
  • Stage A and B prostate cancer
  • Increased pressure on the ureters and kidneys (hydronephrosis) from urinary retention
Prostate surgery is not recommended for men who have:

Convalescence

Hospital stay for open prostatectomy is about 4 to 7 days. Complete recovery from surgery can take 3 weeks. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush fluids through the bladder. Avoid coffee, cola drinks, and alcoholic beverages as these can cause irritation of the bladder and urethra. You should not do any lifting for 3 to 4 weeks. A stool softener may be used to help prevent constipation, which can delay the healing process.

Expectations after surgery

TURP is typically successful at removing the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, although some sources report that within 10 years, about 20% of the people will require another surgery to remove additional prostate tissue.

Patients recovering from surgery for an enlarged prostate may have burning with urination, blood in the urine, urinary frequency, and urgent urination.

Risks

Risks for any anesthesia are:

  • Reactions to medications
  • Problems breathing
Risks for any surgery are:
  • Bleeding
  • Infection
Additional risks include:
Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy
Prostate gland
Prostate gland
Prostatectomy - series
Prostatectomy - series
TURP - series
TURP - series
Review Date: 11/15/2006
Reviewed By: Marc Greenstein, DO, Urologist, North Jersey Center for Urologic Care, Denville, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com