What is the TURBT Procedure?
Bladder cancer is a serious condition, but with early detection and the right treatment, many patients experience successful outcomes. One of the most common and effective procedures for removing bladder tumors is transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT).
At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our board-certified urologists specialize in diagnosing and treating bladder cancer at multiple locations throughout Georgia. If you’ve been diagnosed with a bladder tumor, TURBT may be the first step in your treatment plan. Contact us today for more information.
What is Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT)?
Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is a surgical procedure used to diagnose and remove abnormal tissue from the bladder. It is performed using a thin, tube-like instrument called a resectoscope, which is inserted through the urethra to access the bladder. This safe procedure is the standard first-line treatment for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and is sometimes used to assess muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).
What is TURBT Used For?
TURBT is primarily used for:
- Removing bladder tumors and assessing their severity
- Performing a bladder tumor biopsy to check for cancer cells
- Determining whether the cancer has spread into the bladder wall
- Preparing for further treatment, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy
TURBT is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, helping urologists determine the best course of action for treating bladder cancer.
How Do You Prepare for a TURBT?
Before undergoing a TURBT procedure, your doctor will provide specific instructions, which may include:
- Medical Evaluation: You may need blood tests, imaging scans, or an electrocardiogram (EKG).
- Medication Adjustments: Certain medications, like blood thinners, may need to be paused.
- Fasting: Patients are often required to avoid food and drink for several hours before surgery.
- Bladder Preparation: Your doctor may ask you to pass urine before the procedure.
Following these guidelines helps ensure the procedure is performed safely and effectively.
What Happens During a TURBT Procedure?
TURBT is typically performed under general or spinal anesthesia. Here’s what to expect:
- Insertion of the Resectoscope: A resectoscope is carefully guided through the urethra into the bladder.
- Tumor Removal: Using an electric loop, the surgeon removes the bladder tumor.
- Cauterization: The area is sealed to minimize bleeding and prevent tumor recurrence.
- Bladder Tumor Biopsy: A sample of tissue is sent to the lab to check for cancer cells.
- Cancer Cell Removal: Further cells may be removed using an electric current or laser.
- Catheter Placement: A catheter may be inserted to help drain urine while the bladder heals.
The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day.
What Are the Benefits of TURBT?
TURBT is a safe procedure with several benefits:
- Minimally Invasive: No external incisions are required.
- Effective Tumor Removal: Helps eliminate cancerous tissue.
- Diagnostic Clarity: Provides crucial information about tumor type and stage.
- Potentially Curative: In early-stage cases, TURBT alone may be sufficient treatment.
By accurately diagnosing and treating bladder cancer, TURBT plays a key role in improving patient outcomes.
What Are the Risks and Complications of TURBT?
While TURBT is generally safe, there are some potential risks, including:
- Bleeding: Some blood in the urine is common but usually temporary.
- Blood Clots: Rarely, clots may form in the legs or lungs after surgery.
- Bladder Wall Perforation: A rare complication where the bladder is accidentally punctured.
- Urinary Issues: Temporary difficulty in passing urine.
- Tumor Recurrence: Some bladder cancers may return, requiring additional procedures.
Discussing these risks with your urologist can help you understand what to expect after surgery.
Recovery After TURBT
Most patients recover within a few days to a week. After surgery, you may experience:
- Mild Discomfort: Burning sensation while urinating.
- Blood in Urine: Light bleeding for a few days is normal.
- Temporary Catheter Use: Helps drain the bladder during initial healing.
To promote healing, follow your doctor’s recommendations, which may include avoiding heavy lifting, staying hydrated, and scheduling follow-up appointments to monitor for recurrence.
Need Expert Bladder Cancer Care? Contact Urology of Greater Atlanta
If you’ve been diagnosed with a bladder tumor, transurethral resection of bladder may be a crucial step in your treatment. At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our board-certified specialists provide expert care for bladder cancer, from initial diagnosis to further treatment options. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
