What is transurethral incision of the prostate (tuip)?

Transurethral incision of the prostate (TUIP) is surgery that treats symptoms of an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia). Using either an electric current or a laser beam, the surgeon makes incisions in the prostate where it meets the bladder.

Depending on the prostate's size and rate of growth, this procedure may be done instead of removing part of the prostate tissue (transurethral resection of the prostate, or TURP). Cutting the prostate relaxes the opening to the bladder. This decreases the resistance to the flow of urine out of the bladder. In the right situation, TUIP can be as effective as tissue removal and has a shorter and easier recovery. With TUIP, though, a man has a higher chance of needing another surgery.