TURP Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow

Why Patients Choose Apollo Hospitals Lucknow for TURP Surgery

• A dedicated Urology and Andrology department at Apollo Hospitals Lucknow (Apollomedics Super Speciality Hospital, Kanpur?Lucknow Road) with consultant urologists supported by full-time anaesthesia, nephrology, cardiology and critical care teams ? important because most BPH patients are above 60 and often have diabetes, hypertension or cardiac disease.
• Apollo Hospitals group legacy since 1983, with more than 70 hospitals and a nationwide network of over 10,000 doctors; Apollo has performed urological endoscopic procedures across its network for over three decades.
• Combined urology experience of the Lucknow team runs into several decades across endourology, laser prostate surgery, stone disease and uro-oncology. Exact consultant profiles, individual case volumes and years of experience are listed on the hospital website and can be confirmed with the appointments desk.
• Technology and technique options under one roof ? monopolar and bipolar TURP, transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) for small glands, laser enucleation/vaporisation where suitable, flexible and rigid cystoscopy, uroflowmetry, urodynamics, and open or laparoscopic simple prostatectomy for very large glands. This means the technique is chosen for your prostate, not for the equipment available.
• Full diagnostic back-up: ultrasound with post-void residual measurement, PSA and biochemistry, transrectal biopsy, MRI and CT, and 24x7 laboratory services ? so evaluation and surgery need not be spread over multiple trips for out-of-town patients.
• Round-the-clock emergency and ICU cover for acute urinary retention, clot retention, catheter blockage and post-operative monitoring.
• Separate care pathways for fit younger men who want fastest return to work, for elderly patients with frailty or on blood thinners, and for patients with neurological bladder problems or catheter dependence.
• Insurance and TPA desk on site for cashless pre-authorisation with major insurers, Ayushman Bharat and government schemes where applicable ? eligibility and coverage are confirmed case by case at the insurance desk.

Overview

Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure designed to alleviate urinary symptoms caused by an enlarged prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). At Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, we pride ourselves on our reputation for excellence in urological care, utilising current technology and established surgical techniques to support good patient outcomes. Our team of skilled urologists is dedicated to providing personalised care, making Apollo Hospitals Lucknow a well-regarded choice for TURP surgery in the region. With a focus on patient trust and satisfaction, we invite you to explore how TURP may improve your quality of life.

TURP is performed entirely through the urethra using a resectoscope ? there is no external cut or stitch. It remains the reference standard against which newer BPH procedures are measured in both Indian and international urology guidance.

Why TURP Surgery is Necessary

TURP surgery is often necessary for men experiencing significant urinary issues due to an enlarged prostate. Symptoms may include frequent urination, difficulty starting or stopping urination, weak urine flow, night-time urination, and the sensation of incomplete bladder emptying. These symptoms can severely affect daily life and overall well-being.

The procedure involves the removal of excess prostate tissue, which relieves pressure on the urethra and improves urine flow. By addressing these symptoms, TURP surgery not only improves urinary function but can also meaningfully improve quality of life for most patients. At Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, we understand the importance of timely intervention and the role TURP plays in restoring normalcy to our patients' lives.

Surgery is usually advised when medicines (alpha blockers such as tamsulosin, or 5-alpha reductase inhibitors such as dutasteride) have not helped enough, are not tolerated, or when there are clear complications of obstruction ? repeated retention, bladder stones, recurrent infection, persistent blood in urine from the prostate, or effects on kidney function.

Risks of Delay

Delaying TURP surgery can lead to a range of complications that may worsen over time. As obstruction continues, patients may experience increased urinary retention, recurrent urinary tract infections, bladder stones, bladder wall thickening with loss of bladder muscle strength, or upper urinary tract changes affecting the kidneys. These complications can lead to more complex medical issues, requiring additional treatments or surgeries.

A bladder that has been obstructed for a very long time may not fully recover its ability to empty even after successful surgery, which is one reason not to postpone assessment indefinitely.

At Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, we emphasise assessing urinary symptoms promptly. Our team provides timely consultations and interventions so that patients receive care before complications arise. If your symptoms are progressing, please arrange a consultation rather than waiting.

Benefits of TURP Surgery

• Improved Urinary Flow: Most patients experience a significant improvement in urine flow, with reduced frequency and urgency.
• Enhanced Quality of Life: Relief of bothersome urinary symptoms allows a more active and comfortable daily routine, including undisturbed sleep.
• Reduced Risk of Complications: Timely surgery can reduce the likelihood of retention, stones and infection associated with untreated obstruction.
• Minimally Invasive Approach: TURP is done through the urethra, with no external wound, and typically a short hospital stay.
• Tissue Diagnosis: Resected tissue is sent for histopathology, which occasionally detects incidental prostate cancer that imaging and PSA had not confirmed.
• Expert Care: At Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, our urologists are trained and experienced in TURP and in the alternatives, so the plan is matched to your prostate size and health status.

Results vary between individuals. Improvement is common but not guaranteed, and a small proportion of men need repeat treatment years later.

Preparation and Recovery

Preparing for TURP surgery involves several important steps:

1. Preoperative Consultation: A thorough consultation with our urologists to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and all medications you take.
2. Diagnostic Tests: Blood work, urinalysis and urine culture, PSA, ultrasound with residual urine, uroflowmetry, ECG and imaging as needed, to assess prostate health and fitness for anaesthesia.
3. Medication Management: Follow instructions precisely regarding blood thinners such as aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin or newer anticoagulants, and diabetes medicines. Never stop a cardiac medicine on your own.
4. Arranging Support: Plan for someone to accompany you to hospital and assist at home during early recovery.

Recovery Tips

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to keep urine dilute and reduce clot formation, unless your doctor has restricted fluids for heart or kidney reasons.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled reviews so recovery and flow rates can be monitored.
• Activity Level: Resume normal activities gradually; avoid heavy lifting, cycling and strenuous exercise for a few weeks.
• Pain Management: Use prescribed medication as directed and report severe pain or unusual symptoms.
• Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains helps avoid constipation, which can worsen bleeding and discomfort.

At Apollo Hospitals Lucknow, we provide comprehensive care before, during and after your TURP surgery.

Current Clinical Guidance Behind Our Approach

Our BPH pathway follows recognised, published guidance rather than a single institutional preference:

• Urological Society of India (USI) ? the national speciality body for urology in India; its clinical practice guidance and Indian Journal of Urology publications on BPH management inform local practice, including realistic use of medical therapy before surgery in Indian patients.
• European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines on Non-Neurogenic Male LUTS, 2024/2025 editions ? these continue to place TURP as the standard surgical treatment for prostates roughly 30?80 mL, and now give stronger recognition to bipolar TURP (equivalent efficacy, lower risk of TUR syndrome and transfusion than monopolar) and to endoscopic enucleation of the prostate for larger glands.
• American Urological Association (AUA) Guideline on Management of BPH (2021, amended 2023/2024) ? supports individualised choice among TURP, TUIP, enucleation, vaporisation and minimally invasive options, based on prostate size, anticoagulation, and the patient's priorities regarding ejaculatory function.

What changed recently: the shift from monopolar to bipolar resection using saline irrigation is the most practical change, because it has largely removed the older risk of dilutional "TUR syndrome" and allows safer resection of larger glands. Guidelines have also become more explicit that men who wish to preserve ejaculation should be counselled about this before choosing TURP, since retrograde ejaculation is common after resection.

Where evidence is still evolving ? for example, long-term durability of newer minimally invasive water-vapour and implant-based treatments compared with TURP ? we say so openly rather than overstating benefit.

Timing of Surgery and the Pre-Procedure Phase

• Urgent/early surgery: repeated acute retention, catheter dependence, obstruction causing rising creatinine or hydronephrosis, large bladder stones, or recurrent bleeding from the prostate.
• Planned surgery: moderate to severe symptoms persisting despite adequate medical therapy for 3?6 months, or side effects from medicines.
• Watchful waiting: mild symptoms that do not bother you, with annual review.

Typical pre-procedure sequence at Apollo Lucknow: consultation and symptom scoring (IPSS) ? uroflowmetry and residual urine ? blood tests, PSA, urine culture ? treatment of any infection with antibiotics before surgery ? cardiac/anaesthesia fitness ? planning of blood thinner interruption with your cardiologist or physician ? admission. If you already have a catheter, urine culture and antibiotic cover are essential before resection.

Technique Options and Alternatives Compared

The final recommendation depends on prostate volume, bladder function, anticoagulation, fitness and your own preferences. Availability of a specific laser platform on your admission date should be confirmed with the urology desk.

Procedures Sometimes Done in the Same Sitting

• Cystolitholapaxy ? breaking and removing bladder stones formed due to incomplete emptying.
• Bladder neck incision ? when the bladder neck is tight in addition to prostatic enlargement.
• Optical urethrotomy or dilatation ? if a urethral stricture prevents passage of the resectoscope.
• Cystoscopic bladder biopsy or tumour resection ? if a suspicious bladder lesion is found.
• Prostate biopsy ? occasionally, if cancer is suspected and not previously assessed.
• Circumcision or meatotomy ? if a tight foreskin or narrow meatus makes instrumentation or catheter care difficult.

Anything anticipated is discussed and consented before surgery; unexpected findings are managed in your best interest and explained afterwards.

Phase-by-Phase Recovery Timeline

These are typical ranges, not promises; men with long-standing retention or a weak bladder may improve more slowly.

Returning to Normal Activity ? Indian Daily Life

• Squatting and Indian-style toilets: avoid deep squatting for about 3?4 weeks, as straining raises the risk of bleeding. Use a Western commode or a commode chair at home during this period if possible.
• Sitting cross-legged (for prayer, meals or floor work): usually comfortable again by 2?3 weeks; stop if it causes perineal pain.
• Sleeping on the floor:
• Sleeping on a floor mattress is acceptable, but for the first 2 weeks a higher bed makes frequent night-time toilet trips safer, especially for elderly patients.
• Two-wheeler riding and cycling: avoid for 4?6 weeks; perineal pressure and jolts can restart bleeding. Car travel as a passenger is fine after a few days.
• Driving: once off strong painkillers and able to sit comfortably, usually 1?2 weeks.
• Work: desk and shop work by 1?2 weeks; manual labour, farming, loading, construction and long field duty after 4?6 weeks.
• Sexual activity: generally after 4 weeks or as advised. Erections are usually unaffected; retrograde ejaculation (little or no semen) is common and harmless but affects fertility.
• Religious travel, long bus/train journeys, pilgrimages:
• Best deferred for 4 weeks, and plan seats with easy toilet access.

Reducing the Chance of Recurrence or Further Problems

• Prostate tissue can regrow over years; roughly a small percentage of men need a second procedure after a decade. Continue annual urology review.
• Treat constipation and avoid straining; add fibre and adequate water.
• Control diabetes and blood pressure ? poor glycaemic control worsens bladder function and infection risk.
• Do not hold urine for long periods during work or travel.
• Limit late-evening fluids, caffeine and alcohol if night-time urination persists.
• Report new blood in urine, burning, or falling flow instead of self-medicating with old prescriptions.
• Continue PSA monitoring as advised ? TURP relieves obstruction but does not remove the risk of prostate cancer in the remaining tissue.

Special Considerations: Older, Frail and Younger Patients

• Men over 75 or with cardiac disease: spinal anaesthesia is often preferred; bipolar resection and shorter operative time reduce risk. ICU monitoring is available if needed.
• Men on blood thinners: stopping and restarting is planned jointly with the cardiologist. Where interruption is unsafe, laser enucleation or vaporisation may be safer than conventional TURP.
• Diabetic patients: higher infection risk; urine culture, sugar control and antibiotic cover are prioritised.
• Men with dementia or limited mobility: a family caregiver is trained in catheter care, hygiene and warning signs before discharge.
• Younger men (40s?50s) with BPH or bladder neck obstruction: ejaculatory function and fertility are discussed first; TUIP or bladder neck incision may be preferred.
• Boys and young men: TURP is not a paediatric procedure. Voiding difficulty in children has different causes (posterior urethral valves, neurogenic bladder) and is managed by paediatric urology services.
• Joint family caregiving: we encourage one designated attendant plus one backup, so instructions on fluids, medicines and catheter care are not diluted across many relatives.

If You Choose Not to Have Surgery

Declining or deferring TURP is a legitimate choice, and we will continue to care for you. What to expect:

• Symptoms may remain stable for years in some men, particularly with medicines and fluid timing changes.
• In others, obstruction progresses to acute retention needing emergency catheterisation, sometimes at an inconvenient time or place.
• Long-term risks include bladder stones, recurrent infection, blood in urine, a permanently weakened bladder, and in a minority, kidney impairment.
• A long-term indwelling or clean intermittent catheter is an option for men unfit for anaesthesia, with regular changes and infection surveillance.
• We will arrange a review schedule with flow and residual urine checks so that a change of plan can be made early rather than in crisis.

Factors That Change the Cost of TURP Surgery

We do not publish package figures here, because the final estimate is patient-specific. Please ask the Apollo Lucknow billing or insurance desk for a written estimate.

Insurance, Cashless Treatment and Paperwork

• Planned versus emergency: elective TURP needs pre-authorisation, usually 48?72 hours ahead. If you are admitted with acute retention, intimation is done within 24 hours of admission.
• Waiting periods: most Indian health insurance policies treat BPH/prostate enlargement as a specified condition with a waiting period of about 2 years (sometimes up to 4 years for pre-existing disease). Accident-related admissions have no such waiting period, but BPH surgery is a planned illness claim, so check your policy clause before fixing a date.
• Cashless process: submit policy card, photo ID, and the urologist's clinical notes to the insurance desk ? hospital raises pre-auth to the TPA or insurer ? approval letter with sanctioned amount ? admission. Non-medical consumables, room upgrades and proportionate deductions may remain payable by you.
• Reimbursement: keep original bills, discharge summary, investigation reports, implant/consumable stickers and pharmacy invoices.
• Government schemes: Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY, CGHS, ECHS, state and railway panels ? empanelment and applicable rates vary and must be confirmed with the insurance desk before admission.
• Sub-limits: room rent caps and disease-wise sub-limits are the commonest cause of unexpected out-of-pocket cost; ask for a clear breakdown at pre-authorisation stage.

Planning Your Admission and What to Bring

• All prior prescriptions, reports, ultrasound films, PSA reports and discharge summaries.
• Current medicine strips, including diabetes, cardiac, thyroid and blood-thinner medicines.
• Photo ID (Aadhaar/PAN), insurance card, policy copy, TPA card.
• Loose cotton clothing, pyjamas with a wide leg opening for the catheter, slippers with grip.
• Toiletries, towel, a water bottle, and a mug for perineal hygiene.
• Spectacles, hearing aid, walking stick or walker if used.
• One attendant for the stay; avoid crowding the room, especially for elderly patients.
• Fasting as instructed ? usually 6?8 hours for solids, with clear sips permitted up to the time your anaesthetist specifies.
• Leave jewellery and large amounts of cash at home; remove dentures and metal items before theatre.

Warning Signs That Need Immediate Review

• Inability to pass urine at all, or a distended painful lower abdomen.
• Heavy bleeding with clots, or urine the colour of tomato juice that does not clear with increased fluids.
• Fever above 100.4?F with chills, or foul-smelling cloudy urine.
• Severe burning, or catheter blockage and no urine draining into the bag.
• Persistent leakage of urine or complete loss of control.
• Calf pain, swelling, breathlessness or chest pain.
• Fainting, confusion or very low urine output.

These require urgent attention at the hospital emergency department, not a wait for the next OPD appointment.

For Patients Travelling from Nearby Districts

Apollo Hospitals Lucknow regularly sees patients from Barabanki, Sitapur, Unnao, Kanpur, Rae Bareli, Hardoi, Lakhimpur Kheri, Sultanpur, Ayodhya, Gonda, Bahraich, Basti, Pratapgarh, Jaunpur, Fatehpur, Shahjahanpur and Farrukhabad, as well as from Gorakhpur, Varanasi, Prayagraj and parts of Nepal and Bihar.

• Plan a two-visit pathway: visit one for consultation and all investigations on the same day; visit two for admission and surgery. Send reports ahead by email or WhatsApp so fitness clearance is arranged before you travel.
• Total time in Lucknow: typically 4?6 days including pre-admission tests, 2?3 days of hospital stay, and one review before travel home.
• Travel home:
• Prefer a car or reserved train berth rather than a crowded bus for the return journey; break long journeys and drink fluids on the way.
• If discharged with a catheter: carry a spare leg bag and night bag, know the local urologist or nursing home for emergency help, and keep the hospital number handy.
• Follow-up: the first review is usually in person; later reviews may be possible by teleconsultation with a locally done uroflow or ultrasound, subject to the doctor's advice.
• Accommodation: guest houses and hotels are available close to the hospital; the front desk can guide you on nearby options and hospital assistance for out-of-town families.

Contact and Appointments

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the risks associated with TURP surgery?

TURP, like any surgery, carries risks including bleeding, infection, and anaesthesia-related complications. Specific risks include retrograde ejaculation, temporary burning or urgency, urethral stricture and, uncommonly, incontinence or the need for a repeat procedure. These risks are generally low in experienced hands, and our team will discuss each of them with you during consultation.

How long does the TURP procedure take?

The procedure typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes. The exact duration varies with prostate size and the extent of resection required. Your urologist will give a more accurate estimate at the preoperative consultation.

When can I return to normal activities after TURP surgery?

Most patients return to light activities within a few days. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least two to four weeks. Your timeline may differ, and our team will guide you based on your progress.

How do I schedule a consultation for TURP surgery?

You can call the Apollo helpline on 1860-500-1066, book through the Apollo Hospitals website or Apollo 24|7 app, or walk in to the urology OPD. The team will confirm the consultant's available timings when you book.

What makes Apollo Hospitals Lucknow a good choice for TURP surgery?

Apollo Hospitals Lucknow offers experienced urologists, monopolar and bipolar TURP as well as laser and open alternatives, full anaesthesia and critical care back-up, and 24x7 emergency services. Care is planned around patient safety and comfort rather than a single fixed technique.

Will I be awake during the operation?

Most TURP procedures in India are done under spinal anaesthesia, so you are awake but numb from the waist down and feel no pain. General anaesthesia is used when spinal anaesthesia is unsuitable. The anaesthetist decides after reviewing your spine, heart and blood-thinner status.

How long will the catheter stay in after TURP?

Usually one to three days, until the urine is clear enough for a safe voiding trial. Larger resections or ongoing bleeding may need a slightly longer period. A small number of patients go home with a catheter and return for removal.

Is blood in the urine normal after TURP, and for how long?

Yes, light pink or blood-tinged urine is expected for one to two weeks. Many men notice a fresh episode around day 10 to 14 when the healing scab separates. Increase fluids, rest, and contact the hospital if you pass thick clots or cannot pass urine.

Will TURP affect my sexual life?

Erectile function is usually unchanged, and some men find sex more comfortable once urinary symptoms settle. However, retrograde ejaculation ? semen going backward into the bladder ? occurs in a majority of men after TURP. It is not harmful, but it does reduce natural fertility, so tell your doctor if you still wish to father children.

Can TURP cause permanent urine leakage?

Permanent incontinence is uncommon after a well-performed TURP. Temporary urgency or leakage during the first few weeks is much more usual and settles with time and pelvic floor exercises. Men with pre-existing bladder overactivity or neurological disease have a somewhat higher chance of persistent symptoms.

My prostate is very large. Is TURP still suitable?

Prostates above roughly 80 mL are often better treated by endoscopic enucleation or open simple prostatectomy, because a very long resection increases bleeding and fluid absorption risk. Bipolar TURP has extended the safe range compared wi