What is the primary specimen type collected during a TURP procedure?

During a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) procedure, the primary specimen collected consists of prostate tissue, often referred to as "prostate chips." TURP is performed to relieve urinary obstruction caused by an enlarged prostate, and during the procedure, a resectoscope is used to remove small pieces of prostate tissue from the area surrounding the urethra.

This tissue is then sent for pathological examination to evaluate for conditions such as benign hyperplasia or cancer. The “chips” of prostate are specifically the targeted tissue being removed to alleviate the symptoms; therefore, they are the primary specimen collected during the procedure. Understanding the nature of the collected specimen is essential for both diagnosis and subsequent management of prostate-related issues.