Procedure guide · Urology
TURP and HoLEP are operations that remove the part of an enlarged prostate that blocks urine flow. Both are done through the urethra with no cut in the skin. MedlinePlus explains that surgery is usually considered when lifestyle changes and medicines have not helped. For a traveller, the catheter period after surgery is the main thing to plan around.
What are TURP and HoLEP?
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate. In TURP, MedlinePlus explains, a scope called a resectoscope is passed through the urethra. Electricity is used to remove the inner prostate tissue. It is done under general anaesthesia or spinal anaesthesia, where you are awake but numb from the waist down.
HoLEP stands for holmium laser enucleation of the prostate. MedlinePlus lists it among minimally invasive resection methods and says a holmium laser is used to carve out and remove the enlarged parts of the prostate. Other methods on the same MedlinePlus list include laser vaporisation, transurethral incision, prostatic urethral lift and water vapour therapy. Each suits different prostates and patients.
Who may be suitable for surgery?
MedlinePlus lists reasons for TURP. They include difficulty emptying the bladder, frequent urinary infections, bleeding from the prostate, bladder stones, very slow urination and kidney damage from not being able to pass urine. It says the choice of operation depends on prostate size, overall health, personal preference and how severe the symptoms are. A urologist decides which approach suits you. Prostate cancer must be considered and excluded as part of the assessment.
What reports does a urologist usually ask for?
- A description of your urinary symptoms, ideally with a symptom score if your doctor used one
- PSA blood test results with dates
- Ultrasound reports showing prostate size and any urine left in the bladder after passing urine
- Urine flow test results if done
- Kidney function tests and urine test results
- A full list of medicines, including prostate tablets and blood thinners
MedlinePlus notes that several visits and tests come before TURP. People with diabetes or heart disease may need review by their own doctor first. Do not stop blood thinners without medical advice.
How should you plan the trip?
- Consultation and tests in India, including anaesthetic assessment
- Surgery through the urethra under general or spinal anaesthesia
- Catheter period: MedlinePlus describes a urinary catheter after surgery, sometimes with bladder flushing
- Catheter removal and a check that you can pass urine
- Before flying: ask your urologist when it is safe for you to fly
- Home: follow-up with your doctor and any tissue results shared
MedlinePlus says urine may look bloody at first. Ask whether the catheter will be removed before you fly or whether you may travel with one. An attendant is helpful, especially for older men. Choose accommodation near the hospital.
What should you ask the urologist?
- Do you recommend TURP, HoLEP or another method for my prostate, and why?
- How will you check for prostate cancer before surgery?
- When will my catheter be removed and can that happen before I fly?
- What are the risks to urine control and sexual function for me?
- Will removed tissue be examined and how will I get the result?
- What follow-up will I need at home?
IndiaMedica helps you share reports and compare written plans. The treating urologist decides on suitability and timing.
Questions people ask
What are the side effects of prostate surgery?
MedlinePlus lists retrograde ejaculation, where semen goes into the bladder, problems with urine control, erection problems, urethral narrowing and, with TURP, fluid build-up called TUR syndrome. General surgical risks also apply. Your urologist should explain your own risks before you consent.
Is HoLEP the same as TURP?
No. Both work through the urethra. TURP uses electricity through a resectoscope to remove inner prostate tissue. HoLEP uses a holmium laser to carve out the enlarged parts, as MedlinePlus describes. Your urologist will explain which suits your prostate size and health.
Will I go home with a catheter?
Possibly. MedlinePlus says a catheter is used after TURP and after HoLEP for a short period. Some people go home before it is removed. Ask the hospital to plan removal before your flight if possible and to give written catheter care instructions.
Sources
- MedlinePlus — Transurethral resection of the prostate
- MedlinePlus — Prostate resection, minimally invasive
- MedlinePlus — Enlarged prostate (BPH)
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.