Prostate is a delicate male organ located just below the bladder, and its main function is to secrete and store the mildly alkaline fluid that is 25-30% of semen. The alkalinity of prostate fluid is important as it neutralizes the acidity of vaginal tract, and prolongs the life of the sperm.
Some Common Prostate Gland Problems
Prostatitis is the most common prostate problem for men under 50, and for men over 50, prostate enlargement becomes a major problem. Older men are at the higher risk of prostate cancer as well, but prostate enlargement or benign prostatic hyperplasia is more common prostate problem in this age group.
Some of the symptoms that indicate the prostate related problems are frequent urge to urinate, waking up several times in the night to empty the bladder, weak stream of urine, dribbling or leaking of urine or blood in the urine.
Prostate Gland Surgery
Depending upon the cause of prostate enlargement and size of the prostate, different methods can be used to cure or remove it. Prostate gland surgery is the procedure to remove or destroy the part of or entire prostate gland. Some of the most common procedures for prostate gland surgery are prostatectomy, suprapubic prostatectomy, laser prostatectomy, open prostatectomy and transurethral needle ablation. For the glands weighing more than 30gms and less than 80gms, TURP is the preferred method. If the gland weighs more than 90gms, open prostatectomy is preferred.
TURP is a most common and proven prostate gland surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia, and is performed using general or spinal anesthesia. During this procedure, a small tube-like instrument is inserted into penis through urethra, and is extended till prostate gland. Through this tube, a cutting instrument is inserted, that removes the prostate gland piece by piece. During surgery, electric current is used to stop bleeding.
Another common prostate gland surgery is laser prostatectomy, and it uses beam of light to destroy prostate gland tissue. This procedure does not require hospital stay, and is done on outpatient basis.
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Open Prostatectomy is the open prostate gland surgery to remove all or part of the gland. To perform this type of surgery, an incision is made in the lower abdomen between the penis and belly button, and the gland is removed through this cut. Outer portion of the gland is left behind, and only inner part is removed.
Some of the common risks associated with prostate gland surgery are bleeding and infection. Post surgery, some people may have difficulty getting and keeping an erection, problems in urine control, and urethral stricture.
To recover after prostate gland surgery, drink plenty of fluids, as they will help flush liquids through the bladder. It is advisable to avoid cold drinks, coffee and alcoholic beverages, as they can irritate the urethra and bladder. Do not lift heavy weights at least for a month, and use stool softener to avoid constipation.
