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Transurethral Prostate
Your recent prostate surgery requires very special post hospital care. Despite the fact that no skin incisions were used, the area around the prostate is quite raw and is covered with a large scab to promote healing and prevent bleeding. Certain precautions are needed to insure that this scab is not disturbed over the next 6 (six) weeks wile the healing proceeds.
Because of the raw surface around your prostate and the irritating effects of urine, you may expect frequency of urination and/or urgency (a strong desire to urinate) and perhaps even more getting up at night. This will usually resolve or improve slowly over the healing period. You may see some blood in your urine over the first six weeks. Do not be alarmed, even if the urine was clear for a while. If you should have bleeding, decrease you activity and drink plenty of fluids until clearing occurs.
Diet:
You may return to your normal diet immediately. Because of the raw surface, alcohol, spicy foods and drinks with caffeine, carbonation, etc. may cause some irritation or frequency, and should be used in moderation. To keep your urine flowing freely and to avoid constipation, drink plenty of fluids during the day (8-10 glasses).
Activity:
Your physical activity is to be restricted, especially during the first two weeks. During this time use the following guidelines:
- No heavy lifting or straining (anything greater than 10-15 lbs.) for 3 weeks.
- No driving a car and limit long car rides for the first several days.
- NO strenuous exercise.
- NO sexual intercourse until Okayed by one of your doctors.
- NO severe straining during bowel movements - take a laxative if necessary.
Bowels:
It is important to keep your bowels regular during the post-operative period. The rectum and the prostate are next to each other and any very large and hard stools that require straining to pass can cause bleeding. A bowel movement every other day is reasonable. Use a mild laxative if needed and call if you are having problems. (Milk of Magnesia or Dulcolax tablets for example).
Medication:
You should resume your pre-surgery medication unless told not to. In addition, you will often be given an antibiotic to prevent infection. These should be taken as prescribed unless you are having an unusual reaction to the antibiotic.
Problems You Should Report To Us:
- Fevers over 101.3 Fahrenheit.
- Heavy bleeding or clots (See notes above about blood in your urine).
- Inability to urinate.
- Drug reactions (Hives, rash, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
- Severe burning or pain with urination that is not improving.
Follow-Up:
Call to schedule a follow-up appointment in 7-14 days.
