Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT) is a vital surgical procedure used to diagnose, stage, and treat bladder tumours or bladder cancer. The procedure allows urologists to remove abnormal tissue from the bladder’s inner lining, helping prevent the spread of cancer and offering patients a chance for recovery. If you’re looking for a top urology oncology surgeon in Lucknow, Dr. Aditya Sharma can provide expert care and guide you through the TURBT procedure with precision and compassion.

Why is TURBT Performed?

TURBT can be performed for various reasons, including:

• Diagnosis of Bladder Cancer: TURBT helps determine the presence of abnormal tissue or tumours in the bladder, which may be indicative of cancer.
• Staging of Bladder Cancer: The procedure helps stage the tumour by assessing its size, location, and how deeply it has infiltrated the bladder wall.
• Treatment of Bladder Cancer: TURBT can remove visible tumours, reducing cancer symptoms and preventing the spread of cancer cells.
• Prevention of Recurrence: By removing tumour tissue, TURBT reduces the chance of cancer returning in the future.

The TURBT Procedure: Step-by-Step

The TURBT procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting under general anaesthesia. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect:

1. Preparation for the Procedure: Before TURBT, your urologist will discuss your medical history and perform tests, such as imaging or urine samples, to confirm the presence of a tumour. You may be asked to fast for several hours before the procedure, depending on your anaesthesia requirements.

2. Insertion of the Cystoscope: Once the anaesthesia takes effect, the urologist will insert a cystoscope through your urethra and into the bladder. This device allows them to view the tumour and surrounding bladder tissue on a monitor, enabling precise treatment. The cystoscope may also have specialized instruments that can remove tissue and perform biopsy procedures.

3. Resection of the Tumor: Using the cystoscope, the urologist will remove the tumour and any abnormal tissue. The resection involves cutting and cauterizing the tissue to minimize bleeding and ensure complete removal. If the tumour is small, it may be entirely removed, but larger tumours may be partially resected to aid in staging and planning future treatment.

4. Biopsy for Diagnosis: During the procedure, biopsies of different areas of the bladder are taken for further pathological examination. These tissue samples help determine the type, grade, and stage of the tumour, which is crucial for developing a targeted treatment plan.

5. Bladder Irrigation: After the tumour has been removed, the bladder is often irrigated with a sterile solution to flush out any remaining tissue or blood clots. This step helps reduce the risk of infection and ensures that the bladder is thoroughly cleaned.

6. Catheter Placement: In some cases, a urinary catheter is placed temporarily to allow the bladder to drain. This catheter is usually removed after a few days once the bladder has healed.

Recovery After TURBT

Most patients can expect to be discharged from the hospital within a day or two following TURBT. The recovery period is generally short, but it’s essential to take some time to rest and allow your body to heal. Here's what to expect during recovery:

• Temporary Symptoms: It’s common to experience mild discomfort, blood in the urine, or increased frequency and urgency while urinating for a few days after the procedure.
• Pain Management: Your urologist may recommend pain medications to alleviate discomfort during the recovery process.
• Hydration: It’s important to drink plenty of fluids to flush out any remaining blood clots and prevent urinary tract infections.
• Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor for recurrence of cancer and to assess the effectiveness of the procedure.

What Comes After TURBT?

Once the procedure is complete, the tissue samples are sent to a laboratory for analysis. The pathology results will help determine the type of tumour and guide future treatment options. Based on these results, your urologist may recommend:

• Intravesical Chemotherapy: A form of chemotherapy that is administered directly into the bladder to target any remaining cancer cells.
• Immunotherapy: Treatment to stimulate your immune system to attack any remaining cancer cells.
• Surveillance Cystoscopies: Regular cystoscopy exams to monitor for tumour recurrence.
• Further Surgeries: In some cases, additional surgeries may be required if cancer has spread or if the tumours are too large to remove during the initial procedure.

TURBT is an essential procedure for diagnosing, staging, and treating bladder cancer. With the expertise of a top urology oncology surgeon in Lucknow like Dr. Aditya Sharma, you can feel confident in receiving top-notch care.

For more information about TURBT or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Aditya Sharma, feel free to contact us today. Your health and well-being are our top priority.