During TURP, which device is used to excise the prostate tissue?

The resctoscope is the device specifically designed for excising prostate tissue during a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) procedure. This instrument allows surgeons to visualize the prostate and cut away the excess tissue using a loop or electrode embedded within the resectoscope. The procedure is performed through the urethra, making it less invasive than open surgery, and the resectoscope's design enables the precise removal of tissue while also allowing for the coagulation of blood vessels to minimize bleeding.

Utilizing a resectoscope is essential because it combines visualization capabilities with the tools needed for effective tissue removal, making it the gold standard for TURP procedures. In contrast, while an endoscope is a general term for instruments that allow visualization of internal organs, it does not have the specific features needed for tissue excision. A catheter is primarily used for draining urine or instilling fluids, and while electrodes may be part of the resectoscope for cauterizing, they do not perform the excision on their own.