What is the most common cause of postoperative pain after transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)?

After a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), bladder spasms are recognized as the most common cause of postoperative pain. This is primarily due to the irritation and trauma caused to the bladder during the surgical procedure. The resection process can lead to increased bladder activity and spasms as the organ reacts to the surgical manipulation and healing process.

Bladder spasms can manifest as sharp, cramping pain and often occur in the early postoperative period. Patients may experience urgency, frequency, and discomfort, which can significantly impact their recovery experience. Management of these spasms may involve medication, such as antispasmodics, to relieve pain and discomfort.

In contrast, while incisional pain, urinary retention, and catheter displacement can contribute to postoperative discomfort, they are not as prevalent or directly related to the specific surgical intervention of TURP as bladder spasms. Incisional pain tends to be minimal in TURP due to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure, and urinary retention is usually a managed complication that can occur but is not the primary cause of postoperative pain. Catheter displacement is also a concern but typically presents more as a complication than a primary source of pain.