transurethral

Transurethral describes procedures, instruments, or access routes that pass through the urethra, the tube that conducts urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. In medical contexts, transurethral access provides a way to reach the bladder or prostate without external incisions, using the urethral channel as the path.

In urology, transurethral procedures are common for diagnosis and treatment. Examples include transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia, transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) for bladder cancer, and transurethral incision or resection of the prostate (TUIP/TURP) for obstructive symptoms. Transurethral catheterization uses a catheter inserted through the urethra to drain urine or administer medications. Diagnostic examples include cystoscopy, a direct endoscopic visualization of the urethra and bladder performed transurethrally. Some procedures employ specialized instruments such as a resectoscope or laser fibers to remove tissue or enlarge the urethral opening.

Safety and outcomes vary by procedure but generally aim to minimize external trauma and shorten recovery time compared with open surgery. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, urethral injury, urinary retention, and, in some cases, stricture formation or incontinence. Transurethral methods remain foundational in urology due to their minimally invasive nature and effectiveness for a range of urinary tract conditions.