Prostate Surgery (TURP, Radical Prostatectomy)

What is Prostate Surgery?

Prostate surgery refers to medical procedures performed to address conditions of the prostate gland, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or prostate cancer.

1. TURP (Transurethral Resection of the Prostate): A minimally invasive procedure that removes the excess tissue causing urinary symptoms.
2. Radical Prostatectomy: A surgical treatment for prostate cancer, involving the complete removal of the prostate gland.

Both procedures aim to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and, in cases of cancer, eliminate diseased tissue to improve survival outcomes.

Who Needs Prostate Surgery?

Prostate surgery is often recommended for individuals with:

• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH): Enlarged prostate causing urinary obstruction.
• Localized Prostate Cancer: Early-stage cancer confined to the prostate gland.
• Severe Symptoms: Including frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, or painful urination.
• Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Caused by chronic prostate issues.
• Complications from Prostate Enlargement: Such as bladder stones, kidney damage, or urinary retention.

Symptoms Requiring Prostate Surgery

Some symptoms may indicate the need for surgical intervention:

• Weak urine flow or dribbling.
• Incomplete bladder emptying.
• Urgency or frequent urination, especially at night.
• Blood in urine (hematuria).
• Pain or burning sensation during urination.
• Pelvic discomfort or lower back pain associated with prostate conditions.

Types of Prostate Surgery

1. Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP):

• Purpose: Used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
• Procedure: A small instrument (resectoscope) is inserted into the urethra to remove obstructive prostate tissue.
• Advantages:
  • Minimally invasive with no external incision.
  • Quick recovery time.
  • Highly effective for BPH-related symptoms.

2. Radical Prostatectomy:

• Purpose: Performed for localized prostate cancer.
• Procedure: Removal of the entire prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes.
  • Open Surgery: Traditional approach with a larger incision.
  • Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive, requiring smaller incisions.
  • Robotic-Assisted Surgery: Advanced precision technique for reduced complications and faster recovery.
• Advantages:
  • Complete removal of cancerous tissues.
  • Improved long-term survival rates for cancer patients.

Procedure Overview

• For TURP:
• Preparation: Pre-surgical assessment includes imaging (ultrasound), urine tests, and cessation of blood-thinning medications.
• During Surgery: A resectoscope is inserted through the urethra, and excess prostate tissue is shaved off to relieve obstruction.
• Post-Surgery: A catheter is placed temporarily for bladder drainage.
• For Radical Prostatectomy:
• Preparation: Diagnostic imaging, blood tests, and preoperative counseling are conducted.
• During Surgery: Depending on the approach, the prostate gland is carefully removed, preserving nerves for urinary and sexual function where possible.
• Post-Surgery: Patients are monitored for complications and may need a catheter for 1-2 weeks.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

• Robotic-Assisted Surgery: High-precision technology for minimally invasive radical prostatectomy.
• Laser TURP: Uses laser energy to remove obstructive tissue with minimal bleeding.
• Nerve-Sparing Techniques: Preserve erectile function during prostate cancer surgery.

Post-Surgery Care

• Use prescribed medications for pain management and infection prevention.
• Stay hydrated and consume a fiber-rich diet to prevent constipation.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least 4-6 weeks.
• Practice Kegel exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.
• Attend regular follow-ups to monitor recovery and detect potential complications.

Why Choose India for Prostate Surgery?

• Access to experienced urologists and oncologists trained in advanced surgical techniques.
• Availability of cutting-edge technology, such as robotic-assisted surgery.
• Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care.
• Significantly lower costs compared to Western countries, without compromising on quality.
• Personalized medical services with minimal waiting times.

Why Choose Healtour Solutions?

• Partnerships with leading hospitals and prostate surgery specialists in India.
• Tailored packages covering consultation, treatment, travel, and accommodation.
• End-to-end assistance with visas, airport transfers, and local travel.
• Transparent pricing and no hidden charges.
• 24/7 patient support for international clients.

Cost of Prostate Surgery in India

The approximate cost for prostate surgery in India:

• TURP: $3,000 - $5,000 USD
• Radical Prostatectomy: $5,000 - $10,000 USD
  Costs vary depending on the hospital, surgeon’s expertise, and technology used.

Benefits of Prostate Surgery

• Relief from urinary symptoms like frequency and retention.
• Improved bladder control and reduced risk of UTIs.
• Long-term management of BPH or prostate cancer.
• Enhanced quality of life with advanced surgical techniques.

FAQs

1. What is the recovery time after TURP?
   Recovery usually takes 2-4 weeks, with most patients resuming normal activities within a month.
2. Is prostate surgery painful?
   Prostate surgery is performed under anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. Post-surgical pain is manageable with medications.
3. Can prostate surgery cure cancer?
   Radical prostatectomy is highly effective for localized prostate cancer, significantly reducing the risk of recurrence.
4. How long does the surgery take?
   TURP typically takes 1-2 hours, while radical prostatectomy may take 2-4 hours, depending on the approach used.
5. Will I need a catheter after surgery?
   Yes, a catheter is generally required for 1-2 weeks to help drain the bladder during the initial recovery phase.
6. What are the risks of prostate surgery?
   Risks include infection, bleeding, incontinence, and erectile dysfunction, but advanced techniques minimize these.
7. Can prostate surgery affect sexual function?
   Nerve-sparing techniques during radical prostatectomy aim to preserve erectile function.
8. What lifestyle changes are recommended after surgery?
   A healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine medical follow-ups are essential for long-term well-being.
9. How soon can I return to work?
   Most patients can return to light work within 2-3 weeks, depending on the nature of their job.
10. Does insurance cover prostate surgery in India?
    Many international and local insurance plans cover prostate surgery. Consult your insurance provider for details.