Transurethral incision of the prostate

Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) uses special cutting instruments inserted through the urethra. TUIP differs from TURP in that no prostate tissue is removed. Instead, your surgeon makes one or two small cuts or grooves in your prostate gland where your prostate meets your bladder. The cuts allow the urethra to expand, making it easier to urinate.

What to expect. TUIP typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You may return home the same day as the procedure or require an overnight stay in the hospital. You'll need to wear a catheter for one to two days after surgery. You can return to all types of work in about two weeks. You can resume sexual activity after a few weeks.

Who it works best for. TUIP is an option for men who have minimally enlarged or normal-sized glands blocking the flow of urine from the bladder. It's not used for men with moderate-sized or greatly enlarged glands or for men with enlarged middle lobes.

Outcome. TUIP usually produces similar results, compared with TURP in men who are good candidates for the procedure. After TUIP it may take three or four weeks for symptoms to improve. Ultimately, most men say they're satisfied with how well TUIP relieves their lower urinary tract symptoms. TUIP can reduce symptom scores similar to or slightly less than the results achieved by TURP.

Side effects. Retrograde ejaculation after TUIP is less common and less severe than it is after TURP. Some men who have TUIP will notice some decrease in the amount of semen when they ejaculate. Erection problems also may occur.

Need for re-treatment. Subsequent treatment is more likely with TUIP than it is with TURP. Some men may need a second treatment after a number of years.