transurethral resection of bladder tumor

3 min read 15-03-2025

Meta Description: Learn about Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT), a common procedure for bladder cancer. This comprehensive guide covers the procedure, recovery, risks, and what to expect. Discover if TURBT is right for you and how to prepare for this minimally invasive surgery.

What is Transurethral Resection of a Bladder Tumor (TURBT)?

Transurethral resection of a bladder tumor (TURBT) is a surgical procedure used to remove bladder tumors. It's a minimally invasive technique, meaning it doesn't require a large incision. Instead, a thin, telescope-like instrument is inserted through the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body) to reach and remove the tumor. TURBT is the most common procedure for diagnosing and treating bladder cancer.

Why is TURBT Performed?

TURBT serves several crucial purposes in the management of bladder cancer:

Diagnosis: A small tissue sample (biopsy) is taken during the procedure. This is sent to a lab for pathological examination to confirm the diagnosis of bladder cancer and determine the tumor's grade and stage. This is critical for guiding further treatment.
Treatment: TURBT is often used to remove non-invasive bladder tumors (those that haven't spread into the deeper layers of the bladder wall). In some cases, it's also used to remove a portion of a more invasive tumor to reduce its size before further treatment.
Staging: The extent of the tumor's invasion into the bladder wall is assessed during the procedure. This helps determine the stage of the cancer, vital for treatment planning.

How is TURBT Performed?

The procedure typically takes place under general or regional anesthesia (spinal or epidural).

Steps Involved:

Anesthesia: You'll be given anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable and pain-free during the procedure.
Insertion of Resectoscope: A thin, tube-like instrument called a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder. The resectoscope has a light and a camera to allow the surgeon to see inside the bladder.
Tumor Removal: The surgeon uses a small loop at the end of the resectoscope to cut and remove the tumor. The tissue is carefully collected and sent to a pathology lab for examination.
Electrocautery: Electrocautery (using electricity to cauterize) is often used to stop any bleeding.
Removal of the Resectoscope: Once the tumor is removed, the resectoscope is carefully withdrawn.
Catheter Placement: A catheter (a thin tube) is usually placed in the bladder to drain urine for a few days after the procedure.

What to Expect After TURBT

After the procedure, you'll likely stay in the hospital for a day or two. You can expect:

Pain: You may experience some bladder spasms and discomfort, which can be managed with medication.
Blood in Urine: It's common to have some blood in your urine for several days or weeks after the procedure.
Catheter: A urinary catheter will be in place for a short period to drain urine.
Recovery Time: Recovery time varies, but most people can return to their normal activities within a few weeks.

Risks and Complications of TURBT

While generally safe, TURBT carries potential risks and complications, including:

Bleeding: This is the most common complication. Most bleeding is mild, but in rare cases, it can be severe and require further intervention.
Infection: Infection of the bladder or urinary tract is a possibility.
Perforation of the Bladder: In rare instances, the bladder wall can be accidentally punctured during the procedure.
Urinary Incontinence: Temporary or, rarely, permanent incontinence can occur.
Narrowing of the Urethra (Stricture): Scarring can sometimes narrow the urethra.

Alternative Treatments for Bladder Cancer

Depending on the stage and type of bladder cancer, other treatment options may be considered alongside or instead of TURBT, including:

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy: This is a type of immunotherapy used to treat non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
Chemotherapy: Used to kill cancer cells.
Radiation therapy: Uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
Cystectomy: Surgical removal of the bladder. This is typically reserved for more advanced cases.

Preparing for TURBT

Before undergoing TURBT, your doctor will likely conduct a thorough physical examination and perform several tests, including:

Cystoscopy: A visual examination of the bladder using a thin, flexible tube with a camera.
Imaging tests: Such as CT scans or MRI scans, to assess the extent of the cancer.
Blood tests: To assess overall health.

Long-Term Outlook After TURBT

The long-term outlook after TURBT depends on several factors, including the stage and grade of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Regular follow-up appointments with your urologist are essential to monitor for recurrence and ensure timely treatment if necessary. The success of TURBT depends significantly on the diligence in follow-up care.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.