TURBT Surgery Overview
Transurethral resection of bladder tumors (TURBT), also known as bladder cancer surgery, is a method used to diagnose and treat bladder cancer simultaneously. It involves using a cystoscope to remove and biopsy the tumor, which is then sent for examination to determine the stage and grade of the cancer. The procedure doesn’t require incisions, as the scope passes through the urethra to reach the bladder. TURBT is the main treatment for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer, detecting if it has spread into the muscle layer of the bladder wall.
Evaluation of suspected bladder lesions, staging of bladder cancer, measuring tumor depth, treatment planning for bladder tumors, initial treatment for the majority of non-muscle invasive bladder cancers (NMIBC), and palliative care for advanced bladder cancers constitute some of the TURBT indications.
TURBT Procedure, Recovery, and Post-procedure Care
Preparation: Before the surgical procedure, the patient will be counseled on the proposed surgical intervention and asked about their history of illnesses, risk factors, or any other potential risks of the surgery. The doctor will conduct a general physical examination and possibly run tests including blood and urine to understand the patient’s status before the surgery can be performed.
During the surgery: The TURBT procedure could be done under general anesthesia. A catheter could be placed to release a special dye that would color the bladder and thus make the tumor easier for the surgeon to see. A scope is placed inside the bladder, the tumor is cut out with a cutting device, and the area is electrocautered to stop any bleeding. The surgeon may also place a catheter to drain fluids and prevent blood clots if necessary.
After the surgery: The patient will stay in a recovery room for some time after TURBT surgery under observation until the anesthesia dissolves and the patient’s vital signs stabilize. A catheter may be placed in the bladder, usually removed within 24 hours, to allow urine drainage. Pain management is administered for urethral or lower abdomen discomfort and burning sensations.
TURBT recovery time: Recovery from TURBT surgery can take up to six weeks to fully recover, with the first week or two being the most critical. It’s recommended to wait at least two weeks before gradually returning to normal activities.
Post-procedure care: Postoperative care includes:
- Activity restriction for several weeks.
- Catheter removal within 24 hours.
- Gradual resumption of an oral diet, liquids initially.
- Rest and activity balancing for best recovery.
- Showers permitted; baths and pools not recommended.
- Keep the incision area clean and dry according to the doctor’s instructions.
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Procedure Name
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           TURBT Surgery
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Type of Surgery
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       Minimally invasive (cystoscopic)
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Type of Anesthesia
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           General anesthesia
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Procedure Duration
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               1 hour
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Recovery Duration
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             Few weeksÂ
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Benefits of TURBT Surgery
- No large incisions are required, minimizing patient discomfort.
- Clear visualization of the bladder lining enables effective identification of suspicious lesions.
- Same procedure allows for tissue samples for biopsy, eliminating the need for separate procedures.
- Effective for early cancer, aiming to remove the entire tumor with healthy tissue margin.
- Shorter recovery time, less pain, quicker return to normal activities.
