Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP)

Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is a commonly performed surgical procedure used to treat an enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). The goal of the procedure is to remove the part of the prostate that is blocking urine flow. 

Bipolar TURP, also known as bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate (B-TURP), is a modification of the standard TURP procedure. In a standard, or monopolar, TURP, an electric current is sent through a small wire loop to heat it and cut away prostate tissue. In bipolar TURP, the electrical current is confined to the area of the prostate being cut, which may minimize some risks associated with monopolar TURP. 

In a bipolar TURP procedure: 

1. A special instrument called a resectoscope is inserted into the urethra. The resectoscope, which is equipped with a light, valves for controlling irrigating fluid, and an electrical loop for cutting tissue and sealing blood vessels, is guided through the urethra to the prostate. 

2. The surgeon then uses the wire loop to remove tissue one piece at a time. The pieces of tissue are carried by the fluid into the bladder and then flushed out at the end of the operation. 

3. Once the surgery is completed, a catheter is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to help urine drain while the prostate heals. 

One of the advantages of bipolar TURP over the traditional monopolar TURP is that it uses saline (salt water) as an irrigating fluid, which is less likely to cause complications than the glycerin solution used in the monopolar TURP. Additionally, bipolar TURP can be used safely in patients with cardiac pacemakers and those who are on anticoagulant therapy. 

Like all surgical procedures, bipolar TURP has some potential risks and complications, including bleeding, infection, urinary incontinence, and erectile dysfunction, among others. The decision to have a bipolar TURP procedure should be made in consultation with your doctor, who can discuss with you the potential benefits and risks given your specific health circumstances. 

It's important to note that TURP is used for treating BPH, not prostate cancer. However, during the procedure, a sample of the removed tissue is often sent to a lab to check for the presence of cancer cells. 

Bipolar Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (B-TURP) treats benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) by removing obstructive prostate tissue using a resectoscope. B-TURP uses saline irrigating fluid, minimizing risks and is safe for patients with pacemakers or on anticoagulants. Post-surgery, a catheter aids healing.