Transurethral incision of the prostate is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat patients with enlarged prostates, which are typically caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia. The goal of a TUIP is to relieve pressure on the urethra to allow urine to flow from the bladder into the urethra and out of the body.
Who is a candidate for transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP)?
TUIP is most appropriate for patients who have mild to moderate benign prostatic hyperplasia, where the prostate is not severely enlarged.
When successful, TUIP helps reduce the symptoms of BPH including:
- Urgent need to urinate
- Inability starting urinating
- Sensation that you can’t completely empty the bladder
- Frequent urinary tract infections
TUIP is also an option to treat patients who have complications due to urine flow blockages from the following conditions:
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Bladder or kidney damage
- Bladder stones
Risks of a transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP)
A transurethral incision of the prostate is a generally safe procedure, but complications can arise. Complications may include:
- Difficulty urinating without a catheter – This side effect typically only lasts a few days.
- Urinary tract infection
- Need to treat again – If TUIP is not effective after the first procedure, you may need an alternate treatment to relieve your symptoms.
What to expect during a transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP)
A transurethral incision (TUIP) is typically performed at a hospital’s surgical center under general anesthesia (while you are asleep) or under regional anesthesia (numbing the patient from the waist down).
During the procedure, your doctor will make two incisions into the prostate gland to open the urinary channel and relieve pressure on the urethra. This channel will allow urine to flow through more easily. The doctor will then insert a catheter into the urethra and thread it to the bladder. The catheter will drain and flush out any blood clots that form as well as keep the urethra open after surgery if the urethra swells.
Recovery from a transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP)
After the procedure, you will stay in the recovery area for a few hours. Many patients leave the hospital the day of the procedure, but some may need to stay overnight for observation. When discharged, your doctor will provide instructions on the following:
- Catheter – your catheter will typically stay in for 2 to 3 days
- Recovery time – recovery time will vary based on the complexity of your case and your overall health before the procedure
- When you can return to your normal activity level
- What activities to avoid
- Symptoms to watch for
Some patients may need to have a second TUIP procedure or another similar procedure after a few years if symptoms return.