Treating Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia with Surgery

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition in which the prostate gland becomes enlarged, causing problems with urination. While medications can be effective in managing symptoms of BPH, surgery may be necessary for some men.

There are several surgical options available for treating BPH:

1. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP): This is the most common surgery for BPH. During the procedure, a surgeon removes excess prostate tissue through the urethra using a special instrument. TURP is effective in relieving symptoms of BPH in about 90% of men.
2. Laser surgery: There are several types of laser surgery for BPH. During the procedure, a surgeon uses a laser to remove excess prostate tissue through the urethra. Laser surgery is less invasive than TURP and has a shorter recovery time.
3. Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP): This surgery involves making small cuts in the prostate gland to relieve pressure on the urethra. TUIP is usually recommended for men with smaller prostates.
4. Open prostatectomy: This surgery is typically recommended for men with very large prostates. During the procedure, a surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to remove excess prostate tissue.
5. Prostatic urethral lift (PUL): This is a newer procedure that involves inserting small implants into the prostate to lift and hold the tissue away from the urethra. PUL is less invasive than traditional surgery and may be an option for men who cannot or do not want to take medication.

Surgery is usually recommended for men with severe symptoms of BPH or for those who do not respond to medication. The choice of surgery depends on a variety of factors, including the size of the prostate, the severity of symptoms, and the overall health of the patient. Men should discuss the benefits and risks of each procedure with their doctor to determine the best course of treatment.