TURP syndrome: A rare case report from Syria

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Transurethral resection of prostate (TURP) is a common procedure for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
• TURP syndrome is a rare but life-threatening complication, often associated with prolonged operative times and monopolar devices.
• Despite being well-described, TURP syndrome continues to occur, highlighting the need for vigilance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of TURP syndrome in a 66-year-old male patient.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and prompt management of TURP syndrome.
• To underscore the critical role of electrolyte monitoring in patients undergoing TURP.

Main Methods:

• A 66-year-old male with a 90g prostate underwent a 65-minute monopolar TURP.
• Postoperatively, the patient developed confusion, bradycardia, and hypertension, with laboratory findings of hyponatremia and hyperkalemia.
• Diagnosis of TURP syndrome was confirmed, and treatment involved intravenous infusion of 3% saline solution.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced symptoms consistent with TURP syndrome, including electrolyte imbalances.
• Prompt administration of hypertonic saline led to clinical improvement.
• The patient recovered fully within 24 hours and was discharged.

Conclusions:

• TURP syndrome is a serious urological surgical complication that demands high clinical suspicion.
• Prolonged TURP procedures, especially with monopolar devices, increase the risk of TURP syndrome.
• Early recognition through clinical presentation and electrolyte assessment, followed by immediate treatment, is vital for successful patient outcomes.