The soft notes of a piano played in the background as I sipped my coffee, the familiar hum of the city barely noticeable. The day had just begun, and my mind wandered to the countless patients who shared their stories within these clinic walls. Each story was different — challenges, triumphs, and hope — woven into the fabric of their lives.
The door opened, and Mr. Bernard Grey walked in. A man in his mid-60s, Bernard was a retired school teacher with a passion for gardening. Usually, his eyes sparkled with humor, but today, his face wore a thin veil of worry.
“Good morning, Mr. Grey,” I greeted him warmly. He managed a small smile, taking a seat in the plush chair across from me.
“Morning, Doc,” he replied, glancing down at his hands. “It’s the same issue I’ve been struggling with. The bathroom trips are endless, and it’s so frustrating. I can’t seem to empty my bladder, and the stream… it’s just a trickle most times.”
Understanding the Problem
As I listened, I recognized the symptoms immediately: frequent urination, weak stream, and incomplete emptying of the bladder. These were classic signs of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition where the prostate gland enlarges and presses against the urethra.
“Mr. Grey,” I said gently, “it sounds like your prostate is causing a blockage. This is more common than you think, especially for men over 50. Your prostate gland sits right beneath your bladder, and as it enlarges, it can squeeze the urethra, making it difficult for urine to flow.”
He sighed. “Is there a way to fix this? I’ve tried medications, but they don’t seem to work anymore.”
Explaining Prostate Surgery
“Sometimes, when medications aren’t effective, we consider surgery,” I explained. “The procedure is called a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). It involves removing part of the prostate to relieve the blockage and improve urine flow.”
I could see the worry in his eyes. “Surgery sounds… drastic.”
“It’s a common procedure,” I reassured him. “In fact, it’s one of the most effective ways to treat severe BPH. The recovery period is manageable, and most men experience significant relief.”
Why is the Operation Needed?
The need for surgery arises when the prostate’s enlargement becomes so significant that it obstructs the flow of urine. This can lead to complications such as:
- Bladder damage
- Kidney damage
- Acute urinary retention (complete inability to urinate)
“Left untreated, this blockage can damage your bladder or even your kidneys,” I explained. “Surgery helps prevent these complications and improves your quality of life.”
The Surgery Process
I detailed the procedure for him:
- Spinal or general anesthesia is administered.
- A resectoscope — a thin tube with a loop at the end — is inserted through the urethra.
- The loop cuts away small pieces of the prostate, relieving the pressure.
The entire procedure typically takes about 60-90 minutes, and patients are usually in the hospital for 2-4 days.
Bernard nodded slowly, absorbing the information. “Will it hurt?”
“During the surgery, you won’t feel anything due to the anesthesia. Afterward, there may be some discomfort, but we manage that with pain relief,” I assured him.
What Happens After the Operation?
I walked him through the recovery process:
- A catheter will be inserted to help drain the bladder for the first 1-2 days.
- Expect some blood in the urine, which is normal and should decrease over time.
- Most men stay in the hospital for about 4-5 days.
- You’ll likely need to take it easy for about 2-3 weeks, with a full return to normal activities in about 4 weeks.
Potential Concerns and Reassurances
I could sense Bernard’s apprehension. “Will I be able to control my bladder afterward?”
“Incontinence is rare,” I explained. “Most men regain full control within a few days. Occasionally, it may take a bit longer.”
“And what about… intimacy?” he asked hesitantly.
“Your sexual function will largely remain the same,” I reassured him. “You may experience retrograde ejaculation, where semen flows backward into the bladder instead of out. It’s harmless, but it means no visible ejaculation.”
Benefits of Prostate Surgery
The benefits of TURP are significant:
- Improved urinary flow
- Reduced frequency and urgency
- Better sleep (due to fewer nighttime trips)
- Prevention of bladder and kidney damage
Research supports these outcomes. According to a study published in the British Journal of Urology, 80-90% of men experience improved symptoms following TURP. Another study in the Journal of Urology found that most men report high satisfaction rates and improved quality of life post-surgery.
FAQs About Prostate Surgery
1. Is TURP the only surgical option?
No, there are other options like laser therapy or microwave therapy, but TURP is the gold standard for severe BPH.
2. How long is the recovery time?
Most men recover fully within 4-6 weeks, but it’s essential to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities during this time.
3. What are the risks of the procedure?
Risks include infection, bleeding, and, rarely, incontinence or erectile dysfunction. However, these complications are uncommon.
4. Can the prostate grow back after surgery?
Yes, in some cases, the prostate tissue may regrow over time, but it usually takes many years.
5. Will I need a follow-up appointment?
Yes, regular follow-ups ensure everything is healing well and there are no complications.
A Decision for Better Health
After our discussion, Bernard leaned back, a thoughtful expression on his face. “It sounds like surgery might be my best option.”
“It could make a big difference,” I said gently. “Think about how much better life will be without those constant bathroom trips.”
He smiled faintly. “I’d like to move forward with it, Doc. Let’s schedule the surgery.”
As Bernard left the clinic, there was a noticeable lightness in his step — a step toward relief, recovery, and reclaiming his quality of life.
