Surgery: TURBT

Most people with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer have an operation called transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT). This is done under general anaesthetic using a rigid cystoscope. A TURBT takes 15–40 minutes and does not involve any cuts to the outside of the body.

Learn more about:

• How the surgery is done
• What to expect after a TURBT
• Check-ups after surgery

How the surgery is done

The rigid cystoscope is passed through the urethra into the bladder so the surgeon can see the inside of your bladder on a monitor. The surgeon may remove the tumour through the urethra using a wire loop on the end of the cystoscope. Other methods for destroying the cancer cells include burning the base of the tumour with an electrical current (fulguration) or a high-energy laser.

If the cancer has spread to the lamina propria or is high grade, you may need a second TURBT 2–6 weeks after the first procedure to make sure that all cancer cells are removed. If the cancer comes back after initial treatment, your surgeon may do another TURBT or suggest removing the bladder in an operation known as a cystectomy.

For more on this, see our general section on Surgery.

What to expect after a TURBT

Most people who have a TURBT stay in hospital for 1–2 days. Your body needs time to heal after the surgery.

	Having a catheter You may have a thin, flexible tube (catheter) in your bladder to drain your urine into a bag. The catheter may be connected to a system that washes the blood and blood clots out of your bladder. This is known as bladder irrigation. When your urine looks clear, the catheter will be removed and you will be able to go home. If the tumour is small, there may be no need for a catheter and you may be discharged from hospital on the same day.
	Side effects Side effects may include blood in the urine, needing to pass urine more often and bladder infections. It is normal to see some blood in your urine for up to two weeks. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.
	Flushing the bladder It is important to keep drinking lots of water to flush the bladder and keep the urine clear.
	Recovery time When you go home, avoid any heavy lifting, vigorous exercise or sexual activity for 3-4 weeks.
	When to get help Contact your medical team promptly if you: feel cold, shivery, hot or sweaty have burning or pain when urinating need to urinate often and urgently pass blood clots have difficulty passing urine.