What is the TURP procedure?

The TURP procedure, as defined by the Mayo Clinic, is the Transurethral Resection of the Prostate. This is a type of procedure performed to relieve symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate. The TURP procedure involves a doctor inserting a resectoscope into the urethra at the tip of the penis.

The doctor then cuts away excess prostate tissue that is blocking the flow of urine from the bladder. According to WebMD, this procedure is typically done under general anesthesia or with a spinal anesthetic. A hospital stay of one to two days is often required so that the patient can recover.