Bladder Tumor Resection

Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is the first-line treatment to diagnose, stage, and treat visible tumors. This is also the most common treatment for early-stage or superficial (non-muscle invasive) bladder cancers. Most patients have superficial cancer when they are first diagnosed, so this is usually their first treatment. Some people might also get a second, more extensive TURBT as part of their treatment.

During the procedure, under either receive general or regional anesthesia, a resectoscope is inserted into the urethra.   The resectoscope has a wire loop at its end to remove any abnormal tissues or tumors, which would then be sent to a lab to be looked at by a pathologist.  Should cancerous cells be detected, different steps may be taken, after being discussed by you and your physician.

After the procedure, patients will need to have a catheter placed, which may remain for a few days.  It is common for patients to see blood in the urine for several days after having the procedure.  Patients are typically allowed to return home the same day as the surgery.