A transurethral resection of the prostate is a surgical procedure where your physician has you put to sleep and then inserts a resectoscope through the urethra and removes excess prostatic tissue. The instrument used is about 12 inches long and ½ inch in dameter with an electrical loop that cuts away tissues and seals the blood vessels from excessive bleeding. The tissue is then removed from the area. At times, due to swelling, you may go home with a catheter for a day or two.