Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is best described as

• A. Open radical prostatectomy via an abdominal incision
• B. Transurethral laser ablation of the prostate
• C. Laparoscopic removal of the prostate
• D. Surgical removal of prostate tissue by inserting a device called a resectoscope through the urethra and removing tissue

Answer: (D)

TURP is an endoscopic procedure performed through the urethra using a resectoscope that carries a cutting loop. Prostatic tissue is removed in small pieces with the loop, and tissue is flushed out with continuous irrigation to keep the field clear. This approach relieves bladder outlet obstruction without making an external incision, distinguishing it from open radical prostatectomy (which requires an abdominal incision and removes the entire gland), from transurethral laser ablation (which uses laser energy rather than the cutting loop), and from laparoscopic or open removal of the prostate (which are not done through the urethra). Turp is a standard option for symptomatic BPH where tissue removal via the urethra provides relief of obstruction.