A Transurethral Resection of a Bladder Tumor (TURBT) is a surgical procedure used to remove bladder tumors through the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). This means no external incisions are needed.
AHN is focused on providing minimally invasive procedures, like a TURBT, performed by skilled surgeons who use a comprehensive care approach to help our patients return to their lives as quickly as possible because of the reduced complication risk and recovery compared to traditional surgeries.
A TURBT is primarily performed when a person is suspected or confirmed to have a bladder tumor, usually detected through cystoscopy (a procedure where a scope is inserted into the bladder to visualize it). The type of tumor or cancer will determine whether a TURBT is the right procedure for you. Invasive bladder cancer patients may be candidates for a TURBT, or your surgeon may suggest another procedure.
Your AHN surgeon will walk you through the TURBT procedure in detail, but standard TURBT procedures are used to remove bladder tumors via your urethra (the tube that urine flows through to exit the body). This allows your surgeon to perform one single procedure to remove the tumor from the bladder wall and perform a biopsy. Using the urethra to insert the scope means there are no incisions made, helping the recovery process.
During a TURBT, you will be given anesthesia, and the surgeon will insert a resectoscope, a thin, telescope-like instrument that has a light and camera at the end, as well as a loop or electrode that allows the surgeon to see inside the bladder and remove the tumor. Using the loop or electrode, the surgeon precisely cuts and removes the tumor tissue. The procedure often involves cauterizing (sealing) small blood vessels to minimize bleeding.
The tumor tissue is collected for examination to determine the type and grade of the tumor and to assess the extent of the tumor removal. Post-procedure, you will usually stay in the hospital for a few hours to a day for observation before being discharged. A catheter may be placed in the bladder for a day or two to drain urine and allow the bladder to heal.
Choosing AHN for your TURBT procedure means you are choosing surgeons and health care providers who see you and your unique needs. Your AHN care team will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates your whole health. Your surgeon works with other AHN departments to ensure a multidisciplinary approach to care is executed. This means your surgeon is communicating and coordinating with areas that may include oncology, nutrition, rehabilitation, and others so all aspects of your health are taken into consideration.
Before your TURBT, your doctor will explain the procedure and answer your questions. They will give you instructions to follow, but generally your preparation will include:
On the day of the surgery, you'll be given medication — most likely anesthesia — to help you relax. You will need someone to drive you home afterward, as you won't be able to drive yourself. Remember to arrange for someone to take you home and assist you for the first 24 – 48 hours post-surgery. You shouldn’t experience any pain during the TURBT, but you may have some pain or discomfort urinating for a week or two after.
Recovering from a TURBT involves some bladder irritation, including burning and frequent urination, which typically improves within a few weeks. You might intermittently experience blood in your urine for a short time, and this is usually nothing to worry about. Complete healing of the bladder lining can take several weeks to a few months. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for your care and follow-up appointments. It's crucial to follow these instructions closely for optimal healing.
You will likely have questions if your doctor has recommended a TURBT to remove bladder tumors. Your AHN care team is here to discuss with you, at length, any questions or concerns you may have. We have provided some FAQs to get you started and prompt a conversation with your health care provider.
No, TURBT (transurethral resection of bladder tumor) is not considered major surgery. It's a minimally invasive procedure that does not require an incision.
The most common complication of TURBT is bleeding. After the procedure, it is normal for there to be some blood in the urine. However, if you experience heavy bleeding or clotting, you should contact your doctor.
A TURBT procedure itself doesn't directly impact life expectancy. Life expectancy after a TURBT depends entirely on the nature and stage of the bladder cancer detected and the treatment. If the cancer is caught early and successfully treated, life expectancy isn't significantly affected. However, if the cancer is advanced, the prognosis will depend on the specific characteristics of the cancer and response to treatment. It's crucial to discuss prognosis and life expectancy with your urologist following diagnosis and treatment.
While they are similar, they are not the same procedure. A bladder biopsy is done to remove a small tissue sample to be examined and tested for signs of bladder cancer. A TURBT is a surgical procedure that diagnoses and treats or removes bladder tumors.
TURP (transurethral resection of the prostate) and TURBT are both procedures that address issues in the prostate, but they differ in their purpose and technique:
Please call (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677 to schedule a TURBT procedure.
