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Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour (TURBT) is a surgery to remove tumours from the bladder. It helps in two ways: diagnosing and treating bladder cancer. The doctor removes the tumour and some surrounding tissue to check for cancer under a microscope. At the same time, removing all visible tumours helps treat the cancer. A careful and complete TURBT is important for the best outcome. In some cases, a second procedure may be needed a few weeks later to make sure all the cancer is gone.
This is a minimally invasive surgery (instead of making large cuts, doctors use small tools or cameras to do the surgery) that helps both diagnose and treat bladder cancer.
- The doctor takes out the tumour and some nearby tissue to look at it under a microscope. This helps find out what kind of cancer it is and how far it has spread.
- The goal of TURBT is to remove all visible tumours, giving you the best chance of stopping the cancer from coming back.
Questions to ask your doctor
If you’re planning to have or have been scheduled for a Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour (TURBT), it’s important to talk to your doctor so you understand the procedure, possible risks, and healing process. Here are some important questions you may want to ask:
- What is the goal of TURBT in my case: diagnosis, treatment, or both?
- How will the surgery be done, and how long will it take?
- Will I be asleep (general anaesthesia) or just numbed from the waist down (spinal anaesthesia)?
- How much of the tumour do you think you will be able to remove?
- How long will I need to stay in the hospital after the surgery?
- Will I need a catheter, and if so, for how long?
- If TURBT doesn’t remove all of the tumour, what will happen next?
- What are the chances of the cancer coming back?
- What kind of pain or discomfort should I expect after the surgery?
- How long will it take to fully heal and go back to my usual activities?
- Are there any other treatment options besides TURBT for my situation?
This chapter contains general information about Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour (TURBT). If you have any specific questions about your own medical situation you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. No website or leaflet can replace a personal conversation with your doctor.
Last updated: March 2025