TURBT, or Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (cancer that has not spread into the deeper muscle layers of the bladder). It is the most common initial treatment for bladder cancer and is performed using a specialized instrument inserted through the urethra, avoiding the need for external incisions.
Diagnosis:
To remove bladder tumors for examination under a microscope (biopsy) to determine the type, grade, and stage of the cancer.
Treatment:
To remove visible tumors from the bladder lining.
To reduce the risk of cancer recurrence or progression.
The procedure is performed under general or spinal anesthesia.
A cystoscope (a thin, lighted tube with a camera) is inserted through the urethra into the bladder.
A resectoscope (a specialized instrument with a wire loop) is used to remove the tumor and some surrounding tissue.
The removed tissue is sent to a lab for analysis.
After the tumor is removed, the surgeon may use fulguration (burning the base of the tumor with an electric current) to destroy any remaining cancer cells and stop bleeding.
TURBT is typically used for:
Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (cancer confined to the inner lining of the bladder).
Diagnosis and staging of bladder cancer.
Removal of benign tumors or abnormal growths in the bladder.
Preparation:
The patient is given anesthesia.
The genital area is cleaned, and a sterile drape is placed.
Insertion of the cystoscope:
The cystoscope is passed through the urethra into the bladder.
Tumor removal:
The resectoscope is used to cut away the tumor and a portion of the bladder wall.
Fulguration:
The base of the tumor is cauterized to destroy remaining cancer cells and control bleeding.
Catheter placement:
A urinary catheter may be placed to drain the bladder and allow healing.
Hospital stay: Most patients go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
Catheter: A urinary catheter may remain in place for a few days to help the bladder heal.
Side effects:
Blood in the urine (common for a few days).
Pain or burning during urination.
Frequent urination or urgency.
Activity restrictions: Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for a few weeks.
While TURBT is generally safe, potential risks include:
Bleeding: Blood in the urine may persist for a few days.
Infection: Risk of urinary tract infection (UTI).
Bladder perforation: Rare, but may require additional treatment.
Stricture: Narrowing of the urethra due to scarring.
Incomplete tumor removal: Additional treatments may be needed if cancer cells remain.
Pathology results: The removed tissue is analyzed to determine the cancer’s stage and grade.
Further treatment:
If the cancer is low-grade and non-invasive, regular monitoring (cystoscopy) may be sufficient.
If the cancer is high-grade or invasive, additional treatments like intravesical therapy (chemotherapy or immunotherapy delivered directly into the bladder) or radical cystectomy (removal of the bladder) may be recommended.
TURBT is a critical procedure for:
Accurately diagnosing bladder cancer.
Removing tumors to reduce symptoms and prevent progression.
Guiding further treatment decisions.
If you have been diagnosed with bladder cancer or have symptoms like blood in the urine, consult a urologist to determine if TURBT is appropriate for you. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes for bladder cancer.
