Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is described as

• A. A purely medical therapy to shrink the prostate
• B. An open surgical procedure with an abdominal incision
• C. A laparoscopic removal of the prostate
• D. A procedure performed by inserting a resectoscope through the urethra to remove prostate tissue

Answer: (D)

Transurethral resection of the prostate is an endoscopic, tissue-removing procedure performed through the urethra. A resectoscope is inserted via the penis into the prostatic urethra, where small portions of the obstructing prostatic tissue are resected (often with an electric loop or laser) and flushed out. This approach relieves bladder outlet obstruction without any external abdominal incision, which distinguishes it from open or laparoscopic prostate surgeries. It is a surgical treatment, not a purely medical therapy aimed at shrinking the prostate with medication.