TURBT is the main treatment for superficial (early stage) bladder cancer

With TURBT, the tumor is removed using a minimally invasive technique, without opening the abdomen – through the urethra. This surgery can be performed in situations where the tumor cells reside in the first or second layer of the bladder wall, but have not penetrated the bladder muscle.

 

About TURBT surgery

TURBT surgery is performed by inserting an endoscope – a long, thin tube – into the body to excise the tumors. This surgery helps preserve the bladder.

The surgeon detaches the tumors from the bladder tissue and cauterizes (seals off) the blood vessels to help stop any bleeding that may occur. The surgeon then removes the potentially cancerous pieces of tissue using a special syringe from outside the bladder, and these tissues are sent for pathological evaluation.

The operation is performed under general anesthesia. If necessary, immediately after the operation, the patient will undergo chemotherapy, administered directly into the bladder.

In cases of invasive tumors, more extensive surgery of the bladder is required after the initial diagnostic surgery.

Potential complications of TURBT

Complications of this surgery include bleeding, infection, damage to the structure of the bladder, or a perforation in the bladder. Between 50% and 70% of patients experience a recurrence of the tumor.