What is the TURBT Procedure?
Topic at a Glance
- TURBT (transurethral resection of bladder tumor) is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat bladder cancer.
- The procedure removes bladder tumors through the urethra without any external incisions and allows tissue to be tested for cancer.
- During recovery, you may experience temporary urinary discomfort and possible blood in the urine.
- TURBT helps determine the stage and grade of bladder cancer, guiding future treatments.
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 that can be used to diagnose and remove abnormal tissue from the bladder. It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a thin, tube-like instrument called a resectoscope. This tube is inserted through the urethra to access the bladder. Using this instrument, the surgeon can view inside the bladder and remove the tumor cells for biopsy.
TURBT is a safe form of bladder cancer treatment that is commonly used for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). It can also be used to assess muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).
What is TURBT Used For?
TURBT is both a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure, helping urologists determine the best course of action for treating bladder cancer.
TURBT is a bladder tumor surgery primarily used to treat early-stage bladder cancer. It can be used to perform a bladder tumor biopsy or remove the tumor. With the biopsy, the tissue can be checked for cancer cells and see whether the cancer has spread into the muscle layer of the bladder wall.
How Do You Prepare for a TURBT?
Before undergoing a TURBT procedure, your doctor will provide specific instructions. Some of the things you may need to do to prepare include the following:
- You may need a pre-assessment, including a blood test, chest X-ray, or an electrocardiogram (EKG).
- Your doctor may recommend stopping certain medications, like blood thinners.
- You shouldn’t eat 6 hours before surgery, but sips of water are ok up to 2 hours before the procedure.
Following these guidelines helps ensure the procedure is performed safely and effectively.
What Happens During a TURBT Procedure?
The TURBT procedure can take between 15 and 90 minutes to perform and is usually done under general or spinal anesthesia. The steps of the procedure include the following:
- First, a resectoscope is carefully guided through the urethra into the bladder.
- The surgeon removes the tumor tissue using a small instrument that is passed through the resectoscope.
- The area is sealed using electrocautery to minimize bleeding and prevent tumor recurrence.
- The biopsy tissue is sent to the lab to check for cancer cells.
- Finally, a urinary catheter may be inserted to help drain urine while the bladder heals.
- Depending on your cancer risk, you may be given a dose of chemotherapy through the catheter
If you have intermediate to high-risk non-muscular invasive cancer, you may need to continue chemotherapy in the weeks following the procedure. This will remove any remaining cancer cells in your bladder.
What Are the Benefits of TURBT?
The TURBT procedure is a minimally invasive procedure that requires no incisions. It can effectively diagnose and treat bladder cancer that is limited to the bladder wall. The biopsy can help determine the tumor’s grade and stage, guiding future treatments.
The fact that diagnosis and treatment can be done at the same time means you do not have to go through repeated procedures.
What Are the Risks and Complications of TURBT?
While TURBT is generally safe, there are some potential risks. The risks of TURBT include the following:
- There may be continual bleeding or blood clots in your urine.
- Urinary tract infection (UTI) from the catheter
- Urinary retention due to swelling
- The bladder wall can be punctured
- 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
You will need to rest for the first two weeks following surgery. During this time, you may experience the following:
- Discomfort or a burning sensation while urinating.
- You may see blood in your urine for a few days.
- You will continue to use a catheter for a few days to help drain the bladder during initial healing.
To promote healing, follow your doctor’s recommendations. You should avoid heavy lifting and stay hydrated.
It may take up to 6 weeks to feel normal again.
Need Expert Bladder Cancer Care? Contact Urology of Greater Atlanta
If you’ve been diagnosed with a bladder tumor, transurethral resection of the bladder may be the treatment you need. At Urology of Greater Atlanta, our board-certified specialists provide expert care for bladder cancer, from initial diagnosis to treatment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
FAQs About the TURBT Procedure
What is a TURBT procedure used for?
A TURBT (transurethral resection of bladder tumor) is used to diagnose and treat bladder tumors. It allows your urologist to remove abnormal tissue, perform a biopsy, and determine the stage and grade of bladder cancer to help guide further treatment.
Is TURBT considered a major surgery?
No. TURBT is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed through the urethra using a resectoscope, so no external incisions are required. It is commonly performed under general or spinal anesthesia.
How long does it take to recover after a TURBT procedure?
Most patients need to rest for the first two weeks after surgery. Mild burning during urination, blood in the urine, and temporary catheter use are common during recovery. It may take up to six weeks to feel fully recovered.
Will I need additional treatment after TURBT?
It depends on the type and stage of your bladder cancer. Some patients, particularly those with intermediate- or high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, may receive intravesical chemotherapy after TURBT to reduce the risk of the cancer returning.
What are the risks of a TURBT procedure?
Although TURBT is generally safe, possible risks include bleeding, blood clots in the urine, urinary tract infection, temporary urinary retention, bladder perforation, and recurrence of bladder tumors that may require additional treatment.
