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Enlarged Prostate Surgery: Purpose, Procedure, Benefits and Side Effects

Last Updated: Feb 08, 2023

What is Enlarged Prostate Surgery?

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Enlarged Prostate Surgery is a surgical procedure used for the treatment of urinary ailments caused due to abnormal growth of the prostate. It is a minimally invasive procedure. It helps to reduce the risk of cancer in men.

Your doctor might suggest Enlarged Prostate Surgery in the following conditions:

  • Bladder stones
  • Blood in urine
  • Kidney damage
  • Inability to urinate
  • Urinary tract infections

Types of Enlarged Prostate Surgery

Prostate Surgery Types

The objective of prostate surgery is also determined by your medical condition. The primary objective of prostate cancer surgery, for example, is to eliminate cancerous tissue. The purpose of BPH surgery is the removal of the prostate tissue and help restore urine flow.

Open Prostatectomy

The term 'open prostatectomy' can also refer to traditional open surgery. To remove the prostate and surrounding tissues, the surgeon makes a tiny incision through the skin.

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Radical retropubic

Your surgeon will create a radical retropubic incision from your navel to your pubic bone. Most of the time, your surgeon will just remove the prostate. However, if they believe the cancer has spread, they will remove a few lymph vessels for testing.

If your surgeon discovers that the cancer is spreading, he or she may decide not to proceed with the surgery. The radical perineal method entails making an incision between the scrotum and rectum.

This is frequently done if you have other medical conditions that make retropubic surgery more difficult. This procedure is less time-consuming than retropubic surgery, but the risk of erectile dysfunction is extremely high.

Both approaches can be performed under general anesthesia, spinal or epidural anesthesia.

The Laparoscopic technique

Laparoscopic surgery is a noninvasive method of performing prostate surgery. There are also two main approaches to this type of procedure:

Laparoscopic Radical Prostatectomy
This procedure necessitates multiple small incisions to allow the surgeon to insert tiny surgical instruments. To view the area, the surgeon will use a small tube attached to a camera.

Robotic Radical Prostatectomy
Certain surgeries employ robotic interface for robotic laparoscopic radical prostate surgery. The surgeon sits in a surgery room and instructs a robotic arm while looking at a computer monitor. The robotic arm may allow for greater speed and agility and precision than some other traditional procedures.

Prostate surgery procedures that improve urine flow

Laser Prostate Surgery
Prostate laser surgery mainly treats BPH without requiring any external cuts. In this process the surgeon inserts a fiber-optic scope into the urethra via the penis tip. The skin or cells which are impeding the urine flow will then be removed by the doctor.

Endoscopic procedures
Endoscopic surgery, like laser surgery, does not require any incisions. Parts of the prostate gland will be removed by the surgeon with the help of a long, flexible tube equipped with a lens and light. This tube is less invasive because it passes through the tip of the penis.

Urethral dilation
Transurethral prostate resection (TURP) for BPH: The standard procedure for BPH is TURP. Your swollen prostate tissue will be sliced into bits by a urologist using a wire loop. At the completion of the surgery, the tissue fragments will be drained out of the bladder.

Transurethral incision of prostate (TUIP)
This surgical method widens the urethra by making some tiny incisions in the prostate and the top of the bladder. A few urologists presume that TUIP is less likely to cause side effects than TURP.

Summary- The types of enlarged prostate surgery are: open prostatectomy, radical retropubic, laparoscopic technique, laser surgery, endoscopic technique, urethral dilation and TUIP.

Benefits of Enlarged Prostate Surgery

  • Reduces the size of enlarged prostate
  • Treats urinary problems
  • Helps in faster recovery
  • Less painful
  • Treats urinary infection
  • Relieves pain
  • Relieves discomfort
  • Reduces urinary symptoms

Summary- Enlarged prostate surgery helps to reduce the size of the prostate and relieves urinary symptoms.

Why is Enlarged Prostate Surgery done?

The most important benefit of enlarged prostate surgery is that it removes the prostate gland which may cause cancer. This is a good choice for men whose prostate cancer has not reached the prostate gland yet.

For men whose prostate cancer has expanded and reached the prostate, prostate removal can be an important treatment option. When combined with radiation therapy and hormone therapy, it can effectively treat cancer. It can be instrumental in pain relief and other such symptoms.

Summary- Enlarged prostate surgery is done to reduce the risk of cancer and treat urinary symptoms.

What are the risks of Enlarged Prostate Surgery?

The risks involved in Enlarged Prostate Surgery are:

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Painful urination
  • Blood in urine
  • Frequent urination
  • Large blood clots
  • Scar tissue
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Sexual dysfunction

Summary- The risks of Enlarged prostate surgery are: urinary ailments, infection, blood clots and erectile dysfunction.

How do I prepare for Enlarged Prostate Surgery?

There are some tips and instructions one should follow to prepare for prostate surgery. Based on the type of prostate surgery, you may be instructed to change some of your medications and/or food and drink starting the night before your procedure.

You may also require special preparation, such as a procedure to empty your bowels the day before surgery. Bring any assistive devices you use (such as a walker) if you are staying in the hospital after surgery, and if you are going home the same day, someone should be capable of driving you home.

Summary- You should stop taking any medications and food items and wear loose clothes before the surgery.

How Enlarged Prostate Surgery is done?

Before the procedure

You will be given either general or spinal anesthesia prior to surgery and would be in an unconscious state during the operation if you are given general anesthesia. With spinal anesthesia, you will remain conscious, but pain from the surgical area will be blocked.

During the procedure

A narrow fiber-optic scope is inserted into the urethra through the tip of your penis. The laser is then inserted via the scope to vaporize or cut out the prostate tissue that is obstructing urination flow.

Your doctor may also use tools to cut the parts of prostate cells from the bladder, depending on the procedure.

After the procedure

Because of swelling that prevents urine flow, the patient will most likely have a urinary catheter in place. If the patient is not able to urinate post the removal of the tube, the surgeon might insert the catheter again to allow them to heal, or he or she may give them catheters that the person undergoing the treatment can easily insert themselves a few times a day until the swelling has subsided and they can urinate without having any pain.

How much does Enlarged Prostate Surgery cost?

A resectoscope is inserted into the tube that transports urine from the bladder through the urethra. The surgeon can utilize the resectoscope to see and eliminate any extra prostate cell which is blocking the flow of urine.

Depending on the facility and location, the cost of an enlarged prostate surgery in India can range from Rs 175,000 to Rs 2,000,000 or more.

Summary- Enlarged prostate surgery may cost up to Rs. 2,00,000.

What to do after Enlarged Prostate Surgery?

Allow yourself time to rest because you may feel tired after surgery. The recovery time also depends upon the care you take and the instructions you

Instructions may include the following:

  • Maintaining the cleanliness of your surgical wound
  • Stop driving for at least 7 days
  • Stop vigorous exercise and activity
  • Not climbing the stairs till the wound is healed
  • Don't use swimming pools or hot tubs as they may lead to infection
  • Don't sit in the same position for more than half an hour
  • Taking pain reliever medications as directed

Summary- You should take a nutritious diet, avoid exhaustive activities and take proper care of the surgical area after the surgery.

What to eat after Enlarged Prostate Surgery?

Because prostate surgery is major abdominal surgery, you will most likely be quite fatigued throughout your recovery period. You'll need to make dietary changes and lifestyle changes that will aid in recovery and minimize any pain.

Foods that facilitate bowel regularity, reduce swelling and bloating, and strengthen the immune system are the best foods to eat after prostate surgery. Protein is also essential for tissue repair and muscle growth following major surgery.

If possible, try to get help with meals or prepare some ahead of time. Standing for long periods of time to prepare a meal can strain your pelvic floor, which requires rest after prostate surgery.

Whole grains

  • Whole grains contain fiber, which fosters good digestion and reduces constipation. They also contain more nutrients than refined grains.
  • Whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, whole-grain crackers, oatmeal, and wheat pasta are excellent food options to consume post the prostate surgery.
  • Try to eat at least 30 grams of fiber each day. Foods that contain at least three grams of fiber per serving are considered fiber sources and can help you meet your daily intake.

Chicken

  • Chicken is a good protein source. Protein requirements rise after major surgery as blood loss and operation complications weaken the body. Thus protein is needed to repair the body cells. Chicken breast is a good source of protein for the heart.
  • Chicken breast, like other types of meat, is high in iron. Iron aids in the formation of red blood cells. Due to operation, there is a great risk of developing anemia because of blood loss in the process of the operation. Consumption of iron rich foods reduces this risk.

Citrus Fruits

  • Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, which aids in strengthening the immune system . Vitamin C also aids in the synthesizing of collagen synthesizing, an essential protein for skin growth. You may be less likely to experience pain and scar from the incision in your body if your body produces more collagen.

Nuts

  • Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are high in fiber, and healthy fat and protein . They're also high energy foods and can be used for munching while you recover.
  • Nuts are also high in zinc, a mineral that aids in wound healing and immune system health.

Legumes

  • Lentils, black beans, and kidney beans are high in plant-based protein. During recovery and healing, your body will require a lot of protein and this deficiency will be compensated by legumes.

Vegetables

  • Refrain from eating vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli, which can lead to bloating and acidity in the initial phase of your recovery.
  • Leafy green vegetables like bell peppers, beans, spinach, fenugreek leaves, lettuce, cabbage are some of the best vegetables that don't usually cause gas.
  • Eating a well-balanced diet, apart from consuming medicines can help in your speedy recovery from prostate surgery.

Summary- You should take a diet rich in vitamins, fibre, protein and antioxidants after enlarged prostate surgery.

Is Enlarged Prostate Surgery safe?

The Enlarged Prostate Surgery procedure is a risk-free and effective treatment option for enlarged or symptomatic BPH.

Is Enlarged Prostate Surgery painful?

To alleviate the symptoms of an enlarged prostate, surgery is required. In most cases, surgical treatment for penis enlargement is sufficient. A doctor may also recommend a course of treatment based on symptoms.

A TURP procedure is not painful and takes comparatively less time to recover. Because of the smaller incisions, the pain level is lower than with open prostatectomy. You will, however, be given pain medication both orally and intravenously via an IV.

Summary- No, enlarged prostate surgery is not painful.

How long does it take to recover from Enlarged Prostate Surgery?

After 3 to 4 weeks of rest, most men are ready to go. You should avoid lifting or moving heavy objects (including shopping) or engaging in strenuous exercise for the first 3 to 4 weeks. Take the help of friends or family members to assist you in the house if you want to move or do something.

Summary- After enlarged prostate surgery, recovery could take one month.

What are the side effects of Enlarged Prostate Surgery?

  • Infections of the Urinary tract accompanying excess of bleeding
  • Retrograde ejaculation, where the sperm flows backward into the bladder during ejaculation,
  • Chronic urinary problems, particularly incontinence,
  • Prostate regrowth or scarring, with approximately 10%
  • A split stream of urine caused by urethral narrowing chronic prostatitis or prostate inflammation
  • Allergic reaction to anesthesia

Summary- The side effects of enlarged prostate surgery are: infection, regrowth of the prostate, retrograde ejaculation and scarring.

Enlarged Prostate Surgery Aftercare:

If the scrotum gets swollen post the surgery, the patient should use a rolled towel to make a sling to minimize the swelling. To give support while sleeping or sitting, place the towel roll beneath your scrotum and wrap the sides over your legs. Consult your doctor if, after a week, the swelling does not go down.

Summary- Post-treatment guidelines for enlarged prostate surgery are: take a healthy diet, avoid strenuous routines and get enough rest.

Conclusion:

Surgery can significantly lessen the issues brought on by a benign enlarged prostate. It is taken into consideration if previous therapies are ineffective or if the enlarged prostate continues to cause illnesses like urinary tract infections.

Going for an enlarged prostate surgery might sound a bit scary, but it is the best and the safest way to reduce the risk of cancer. Pristyn Care provides the best and the most reliable surgery options with its team of highly experienced and proficient doctors and surgeons who provide a hassle-free and reliable surgery experience to their patients.

If you are looking for the best doctors and hospitals to undergo an enlarged prostate surgery, then do reach out to us. We will offer you the most dependable services.

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Written ByDrx Hina FirdousPhD (Pharmacology) Pursuing, M.Pharma (Pharmacology), B.Pharma - Certificate in Nutrition and Child CarePharmacology
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Reviewed ByDr. Bhupindera Jaswant SinghMD - Consultant PhysicianGeneral Physician
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