Cancer treatment
Bladder Tumour Removal
Bladder tumour removal (TURBT) removes tumours from the bladder lining through the urethra, to treat and diagnose bladder cancer.
Quick answer
Bladder Tumour Removal: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Transurethral resection of a bladder tumour (TURBT) uses an instrument passed up the urethra to remove tumours from the inside of the bladder. The tissue is examined to diagnose and stage bladder cancer.
- Why it is done: It is used to remove visible bladder tumours, confirm the diagnosis and find out how deeply the cancer has grown, guiding further treatment.
- What happens: Under general or spinal anaesthetic, the surgeon passes a scope up the urethra and removes the tumour from the bladder wall.
What it is
Transurethral resection of a bladder tumour (TURBT) uses an instrument passed up the urethra to remove tumours from the inside of the bladder. The tissue is examined to diagnose and stage bladder cancer.
Why it is done
It is used to remove visible bladder tumours, confirm the diagnosis and find out how deeply the cancer has grown, guiding further treatment. It is often both the first treatment and a diagnostic step.
What happens
Under general or spinal anaesthetic, the surgeon passes a scope up the urethra and removes the tumour from the bladder wall. There are no external cuts, and it usually takes 30–60 minutes.
Recovery
A catheter may drain the bladder for a day or so, sometimes with bladder washouts. Blood in the urine is common for a short time. Most people go home within a day or two.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Risks include bleeding, infection, and rarely a hole in the bladder wall. Bladder cancer can recur, so regular follow-up with camera checks (cystoscopy) is usually needed.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Bladder Tumour Removal: frequently asked questions
Will I need more treatment after TURBT?
It depends on what the tissue shows. Some people need medicine placed into the bladder, further surgery or other treatments, and most need regular follow-up cystoscopies because bladder cancer can return.
Is blood in my urine normal afterwards?
Some blood in the urine for a short time after TURBT is expected. Drinking plenty of fluids helps. Seek advice if bleeding is heavy, you pass clots, or you cannot pass urine.
Related
Other cancer treatment
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — procedure and treatment guidance
- British Association of Urological Surgeons / relevant professional body
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