Treatment in Clifton, NJ

TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)

Introduction to TURP

Introduction to TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate)

The prostate commonly becomes larger with age and can gradually place more pressure on the urethra. This can lead to urinary symptoms such as a weak urine stream, frequent urination at night, or difficulty starting to urinate. These symptoms can be frustrating and interfere with everyday activities and sleep.

At East Coast Advanced Urology in Clifton, NJ, Dr. Karl Coutinho performs several procedures for urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, including transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). He welcomes patients from throughout the greater New York metropolitan area and develops treatment plans based on each patient’s symptoms, prostate condition, overall health, and previous treatment.

Professional man in glasses and purple sweater in thoughtful pose at modern office space - in Clifton, NJ

What is TURP?

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a surgical procedure used to treat urinary problems caused by an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The procedure is performed through the urethra, so no external incisions are needed.

During TURP, Dr. Coutinho passes a specialized instrument called a resectoscope through the urethra to reach the prostate. An electrical loop is then used to remove portions of prostate tissue that are blocking the flow of urine. Removing this obstructing tissue creates more room for urine to pass through the urethra and can improve urinary symptoms.

Other Treatments for Urinary and Prostate Conditions

TURP is used to relieve urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate, but some patients may have other urinary conditions that also require treatment. Dr. Coutinho will evaluate your prostate, bladder, and urinary symptoms to determine which procedure or combination of treatments may be appropriate.

Difficulty emptying the bladder due to an enlarged prostate can contribute to the formation of bladder stones. Cystolitholapaxy breaks apart and removes these stones through the urinary tract. If bladder stones are present along with prostate obstruction, Dr. Coutinho can determine how both conditions should be addressed.

Who Are the Best Candidates for TURP?

Men with bothersome urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate may be candidates for TURP. Dr. Coutinho will evaluate your symptoms, prostate, overall health, medications, and previous treatments before determining whether the procedure is right for you. A guideline-based BPH evaluation commonly includes a symptom assessment and exams. Depending on the treatment being considered, Dr. Coutinho may also measure post-void residual urine, urine-flow rate, and prostate size or anatomy using imaging or cystoscopy.

Patients who may benefit include men who:

  • Have difficulty starting urination or maintaining a strong urine stream
  • Need to urinate frequently or urgently
  • Have difficulty completely emptying the bladder
  • Continue to have bothersome symptoms despite medication
  • Have experienced urinary retention or other problems related to an enlarged prostate
  • Are appropriate candidates for surgery and anesthesia
  • Understand what to expect from the procedure and recovery

Dr. Coutinho will also discuss possible changes in ejaculation and sexual function before surgery so you can make an informed decision about treatment.

What Are the Benefits of TURP?

By removing prostate tissue that is blocking the urethra, TURP can improve urine flow and reduce many of the urinary symptoms associated with an enlarged prostate.

Benefits may include:

  • A stronger urine stream
  • Less straining or hesitancy when you urinate
  • Fewer frequent or urgent trips to the bathroom
  • Improved ability to empty your bladder
  • Less need to get up during the night to urinate
  • Relief from urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate
Prostate and Bladder Health-evaluation

How to Begin Your TURP Evaluation

The first step is to book a consultation with Dr. Coutinho at East Coast Advanced Urology in Clifton, NJ. During this visit, you and Dr. Coutinho will:

  • Discuss your urinary symptoms and any problems you have when urinating
  • Go over TURP in detail, including what happens during the procedure and recovery
  • Review your medical history, previous surgeries, current conditions, and medications
  • Complete a physical examination and any testing needed to evaluate your prostate and urinary function
  • Discuss whether TURP or another treatment may be appropriate for you
  • Review instructions for preparing for surgery and what to expect during recovery

What to Expect on the Day of TURP Surgery

TURP is performed with anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure. Before surgery begins, Dr. Coutinho and the surgical team will review your treatment plan and answer any remaining questions. You will receive specific instructions beforehand regarding eating, drinking, and medications.

During TURP, Dr. Coutinho passes a resectoscope through the urethra to reach the prostate. An electrical loop on the instrument is used to remove prostate tissue that is blocking urine flow. Fluid is used during the procedure to help clear the removed tissue from the bladder.

A urinary catheter is typically placed afterward to allow urine to drain while the prostate and urinary tract begin to heal. Dr. Coutinho will determine how long the catheter needs to remain in place based on your procedure and recovery.

Prostate and Bladder Health-expect

TURP Recovery

Your Guide to Post-TURP Care

Recovery after TURP takes time, and urinary symptoms can change as the prostate and urinary tract heal. Some blood in the urine, burning with urination, urinary urgency, or increased frequency can occur during the initial recovery period. If a urinary catheter was placed, Dr. Coutinho will let you know when it can be removed.

Rest and gradually returning to normal activities are important during recovery. Dr. Coutinho will provide instructions regarding fluids, medications, driving, exercise, sexual activity, and other precautions. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise may need to be avoided temporarily, and follow-up appointments will allow him to monitor your urinary function and healing.

How Much Does TURP Cost in New Jersey?

The cost of TURP in Clifton, NJ, and the greater New York metropolitan area can vary depending on your individual treatment, anesthesia, facility fees, and insurance coverage.

Insurance coverage depends on your plan and medical needs. Before treatment, the office can help review your benefits and explain any costs you may be responsible for.

Why Choose Dr. Coutinho?

Dr. Karl Coutinho treats BPH and urinary obstruction using several endoscopic and minimally invasive approaches. Because he offers multiple treatment options, TURP can be recommended when the patient’s prostate anatomy, degree of obstruction, need for tissue removal, prior treatment, and goals make resection more appropriate than an implant-based or laser procedure.

His academic work in lower urinary tract symptoms and BPH includes peer-reviewed publications, prospective clinical-trial research, and national presentations. He has served as principal investigator for the randomized PINNACLE BPH trial and previously presented research at the American Urological Association examining TURP and urinary outcomes. This experience complements his surgical training when evaluating men with complex bladder-emptying problems.

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TURP FAQ’S

Patient Reviews

  • My surgery was life changing and the recovery period was better than I ever expected. I would highly recommend Dr Coutinho , he is the best.

    View Gallery Claude R.
  • I had an outstanding experience with Dr. Coutinho and their entire urology team. They truly go above and beyond.

    View Gallery Jenney S.
  • Dr Karl Coutinho is an excellent doctor in his field. He made me feel whole again after doing two procedures for me.

    View Gallery Keith A.
  • I’ve never met a doctor so empathetic

    I’ve never met a doctor so empathetic, professional and Knowledgeable Dr Coutinho performed a very difficult surgery on me. I had absolutely no pain.

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East Coast Advanced Urology

Schedule Your Consultation

If an enlarged prostate is causing problems with urination, schedule a consultation with Dr. Karl Coutinho at East Coast Advanced Urology in Clifton, NJ. He can evaluate your symptoms, review previous treatments, and determine whether TURP may be appropriate for you.

Dr. Coutinho welcomes patients from throughout the greater New York metropolitan area. Contact East Coast Advanced Urology to schedule your consultation.