Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor

Bladder cancer is a concern, but with early detection and treatment, successful outcomes are possible. Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used at Urology Specialists of Ohio to diagnose and treat bladder tumors. This single procedure allows your urologist to both visualize the inside of your bladder and take necessary actions.

How Does TURBT Work?

TURBT utilizes a cystoscope, a thin, lighted instrument inserted through the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder). During the procedure:

• The cystoscope allows your urologist to see the lining of your bladder and identify any suspicious areas.
• If a biopsy is needed, tissue samples can be collected through the cystoscope for analysis under a microscope to determine if cancer is present.
• If cancerous tumors are identified, they can be resected (cut out) using specialized instruments passed through the cystoscope.

Benefits of TURBT

TURBT offers several advantages for both diagnosing and treating bladder tumors:

• Minimally invasive: Unlike traditional surgery, TURBT requires no large incisions, resulting in less pain, scarring, and a shorter recovery time.
• Effective diagnosis and treatment in one procedure: TURBT eliminates the need for separate procedures for diagnosis (biopsy) and treatment (tumor removal).
• Outpatient procedure (often): Depending on the complexity of the procedure, TURBT can often be performed on an outpatient basis, allowing you to return home the same day.
• Preserves bladder function (potential): For early-stage bladder cancer, TURBT may be used to remove tumors while preserving the bladder itself.

Who Needs TURBT?

Your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio may recommend TURBT for various reasons:

• Diagnosis: To obtain tissue samples from suspicious areas in the bladder for biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer.
• Treatment: To remove superficial (non-invasive) bladder tumors.
• Staging: To determine the depth and extent of bladder cancer spread, which helps guide further treatment decisions.
• Palliative care: To relieve symptoms caused by bladder tumors, such as bleeding or blockage, to improve quality of life.

Recovery After TURBT

Recovery after TURBT is generally quick. You may experience some discomfort, burning with urination, or blood in the urine for a few days. Your urologist at Urology Specialists of Ohio will provide specific post-operative instructions, including medications to manage discomfort and antibiotics to prevent infection.

Urology Specialists of Ohio: Your Partner in Bladder Cancer Care

At Urology Specialists of Ohio, we understand the importance of early detection and effective treatment for bladder cancer. We offer TURBT as part of our comprehensive bladder cancer care program. Our experienced urologists will work closely with you to determine if TURBT is the right approach for your individual case and guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to learn more about TURBT and how we can help you manage bladder cancer.