Just a quick update 6 months post bipolar turp. All systems are still working better than ever and no retrograde or other side effects. Still urinating like I was 20 yo and rarely wake up to void. My original issue was serious retention of over a liter and bladder that was just not responding. I spent a year self cathing before the surgery and was warned that it was very possible I would have to self cath forever given the terrible urodynamics results. I was shocked the first time I voided after the foley came out and can only surmise that my bladder regained its function during the year I self cathed. Best decision I have ever made. I have hundreds of new GentleCath touchless caths as well as Speedicath Compacts (awesome if you travel or need secrecy) so shoot me a message if want a good deal.
Great to hear. I’m still looking forward to my 6-month anniversary of my TURP. I’m still a bit fuzzy on what the difference is between a regular TURP and a BiPolar TURP. I thought I read something that it has to do with burning away the prostate when moving the electrode in BOTH directions? Anyway, I have plenty of force peeing now and the burning pain has gone away after 3-4 months. I still have “urges” but that is more of a bladder issue than a prostate one.
Monopolar means the return current path is external, typically via an electrode attached to the leg. This requires the use of glycine as the cooling liquid. With bipolar the return current goes through the electrode and saline is used. The electrode shape (loop) and cutting motion are virtually identical. A bipolar TURP can also use a button electrode which is slower but results in a smoother surface. Some doctors like mine start with a loop because it’s faster then switch to the button to smooth the surface.