Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is a surgical procedure used to remove tumors in the bladder. It is typically performed using a cystoscope, a thin tube with a camera and light on the end, that is inserted through the urethra and into the bladder.
TURBT is usually performed under general anesthesia, which means the patient is asleep during the procedure. Local anesthesia may also be used in some cases. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the tumor.
Why is TURBT performed?
TURBT is most commonly used to treat non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), which is cancer that has not spread beyond the lining of the bladder. It is used to remove the tumor and any abnormal tissue around it. TURBT may also be used to diagnose bladder cancer if a suspicious growth is seen during a cystoscopy.
Preparing for TURBT
Before the procedure, the patient will usually undergo a physical exam and blood tests to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery. They may also need to stop taking certain medications or supplements that could increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
On the day of the procedure, the patient will need to fast for several hours before the surgery. They will also need to empty their bladder before the surgery.
The TURBT Procedure
During the TURBT procedure, the patient will lie on their back with their legs raised and their feet in stirrups. The doctor will insert a cystoscope through the urethra and into the bladder. The cystoscope is connected to a video monitor, allowing the doctor to see the inside of the bladder.
The doctor will then use a wire loop or other instrument to remove the tumor and any abnormal tissue around it. They may also use an electrical current to cauterize any bleeding.
After the procedure, the doctor will examine the tissue that was removed to determine if it is cancerous. If the tumor is cancerous, further treatment may be needed.
Recovery after TURBT
After the procedure, the patient will be taken to a recovery room where they will be monitored for any complications, such as bleeding or difficulty urinating. The patient may need to stay in the hospital overnight or may be able to go home the same day, depending on the extent of the surgery.
It is common to experience some discomfort or pain after the procedure, such as burning or stinging during urination, blood in the urine, or a frequent urge to urinate. These symptoms usually improve within a few days.
The patient will need to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks after the procedure to allow the bladder to heal. They may also need to use a catheter for a few days to help drain urine from the bladder.
Risks of TURBT
Like any surgical procedure, TURBT carries some risks. The risks associated with TURBT include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Difficulty urinating
- Bladder perforation
- Scar tissue formation
- Incomplete removal of the tumor
In rare cases, TURBT can also cause more serious complications, such as a blood clot in the legs or lungs or damage to nearby organs.
Follow-up after TURBT
After the TURBT procedure, the patient will need to have regular follow-up appointments to monitor for any recurrence of the tumor. This may include regular cystoscopies, urine tests, and imaging tests.
If the tumor is cancerous, further treatment may be needed, such as intravesical therapy, which involves inserting a liquid medication into the bladder to kill any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, additional surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy may also be needed.