Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP or Gyrus TURP or Gyrus Button)
Up until the last several years there has been only one endoscopic (telescopic) way to manage the problem of urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate (BPH or benign prostatic hyperplasia). This operation is known as the transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP or “roto-rooter”) and it is still considered an effective operation. Today, however, an exciting new technology has emerged as a nearly comparable option for surgically managing an enlarged prostate – Laser vaporization of the prostate. This procedure utilizes a laser that vaporizes the prostate tissue without significant bleeding. Advantages of this procedure over the TURP are that this surgery is outpatient, can be performed on patients taking blood thinners, and does not have the risk of significant fluid absorption (making it a safer option for patients with cardiac and respiratory problems).