What is Prostate Surgery?

The prostate gland helps to produce the semen that carries the sperm outside of the body in males. Medical conditions such as prostate cancer or benign prostatic hyperplasia may be treated with the use of prostate surgery. There are several different types of prostate surgery available, depending on the specific reasons for the surgery and the overall health of the patient. Non-invasive prostate surgery does not typically require the use of general anesthesia, and the patient will usually be free to return home on the same day as the procedure. More invasive types of prostate surgery may require a several day stay in the hospital and often call for complete sedation through general anesthesia.

A procedure known as a PVP, or photoselective vaporization of the prostate, is a type of non-invasive prostate surgery. In this procedure, a laser is used to remove any excess tissue that may be present in the prostate gland. Another non-invasive procedure in called TUNA, which stands for transurethral needle ablation. This involves the use of radio waves to remove the excess tissue.

A more invasive type of prostate surgery is referred to as TURP, or transurethral resection of the prostate. This is the primary treatment method for the condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia. A thin instrument with a wire loop attached to one end is inserted into the urethra and is used to cut away excess tissue. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and may require one or more days in the hospital.

An open prostatectomy is not used if other surgical options are available, partially due to the increased risks of infection, as well as other potential complications from open surgery. This procedure may be used in cases of an extremely enlarged prostate gland or if other procedures have not been successful. A small incision is made into the lower portion of the abdomen, and the prostate gland is removed through the opening created by this incision. Following this procedure, the patient will typically spend two or three days in the hospital so the medical team can watch for any potential complications.

It is very important to follow the instructions of the doctor following prostate surgery. The patient may be advised to increase fluid intake so that the prostate gland can be sufficiently flushed out, thus decreasing infection risks. Physical activity will likely be limited until the body has had time to heal. Any questions or concerns involving prostate surgery should be directed to a doctor or other medical professional.