What procedure is described as transurethral?

Transurethral procedures involve accessing the urinary tract through the urethra, which is typically done using an endoscopic approach. This technique allows for visualization and intervention within the urinary bladder or prostate without the need for external incisions, making it minimally invasive. Instruments are inserted through the urethra, allowing for direct access to the target area to perform various therapeutic or diagnostic procedures.

Endoscopy is characterized by its use of flexible or rigid scopes that provide visualization and can facilitate interventions. In the case of transurethral procedures, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or bladder tumor resection, the endoscopic method is crucial because it minimizes discomfort and recovery time for the patient compared to more invasive surgical techniques.

Other options delineate distinct types of surgical methods: open surgical procedures involve larger incisions and more extensive surgical intervention; laparoscopic procedures utilize small incisions and specialized instruments but are not typically accessed through the urethra; while robotic surgery employs robotic assistance for precision in various surgical fields, it also doesn’t inherently refer to the access point through the urethra. Therefore, the identification of transurethral procedures as endoscopic accurately captures the essence of the technique.