Bladder cancer is the abnormal growth of cells that occur in the bladder. Bladder cancer at an early stage of growth may not produce any noticeable signs or symptoms. Common symptoms of bladder cancer may include hematuria (blood in the urine that looks red or rusty), which is usually painless and may appear only from time to time over a few months, a burning sensation during urination and urinary incontinence.
What is a Transurethral Resection of a Bladder Tumor (TURBT)?
TURBT is a procedure that involves the surgical removal of a tumor or cancerous tissue from the bladder. The procedure is also used to diagnose bladder cancer. TURBT uses a surgical instrument called a resectoscope (thin metal tube with light source, camera and cutting tool) to cut off a sample of tumor tissue to be analyzed by a pathologist under a microscope, or to remove the entire tumor from your bladder.
How is TURBT Procedure Performed?
TURBT is performed under general or spinal anesthesia. Your surgeon inserts the resectoscope into the bladder through the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body). The cutting tool is guided through the resectoscope and is heated with the help of an electric current. The heated wire is used to cut and remove the excess tissue. At the end of the procedure, the blood vessels are carefully sealed back and the bladder is irrigated to flush out pieces of the tissue. The duration of the surgery depends on the number and size of the tumor(s) but will usually take about 1 hour. You may have to stay in the hospital for a few days after the procedure. You can typically resume your normal activities in two weeks.
What are the Risks and Complications of TURBT?
As with all surgical procedures, TURBT may be associated with certain complications which includes:
- Urinary incontinence (loss of bladder control)
- Narrowing of the urethra
- Infection
- Painful urination
- Blood in the urine
- Bleeding
If you wish to be advised on the most appropriate treatment, please give us a call at to schedule an appointment or request an appointment online.
