Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour (TURBT)

A Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) is a procedure in which bladder tumour(s) are removed from the bladder wall and sent to a pathologist for examination. From this, your doctor will be able to find out whether the tumour cells are cancerous and if they are, the grade and stage the cancer has reached. This information will help your decide future treatment needed.

This procedure may require an overnight admission in hospital. Once you are anaesthetized, the doctor will pass a cystoscopy through the urethra into your bladder. Your doctor will be able to see the bladder lining and will cut away the tumour(s). This can create some bleeding and in order to control this, your doctor will diathermy the area.

Following surgery, a urethral catheter may be inserted. This is to help empty your bladder and clear any debris. Once your urine is rose in colour, the catheter will be removed and nursing staff will check to ensure you are emptying your bladder efficiently. This normally occurs the day following your surgery.

You will be discharged from hospital if your urine is rose in colour and you are voiding with no difficulties.

Please contact the rooms if you are on any blood thinning medications as these will need to be stopped before your procedure.

Following discharge

• It is important you drink adequate fluids to help ‘flush’ out your bladder (1.5 – 2 litres per day).
• If you notice any bleeding, increase your fluids further and contact the rooms to discuss with the Practice Nurse.
• You may experience a mild burning or a stinging sensation when passing urine. This will last a few days. It helps to ensure your fluid intake is adequate. You may also benefit from taking pain relief such as panadol.
• It is important you avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 2-4 weeks. Gentle exercise such as walking is advised.
• The time to work is variable for each person and depends on the extent of cancer removed. Please discuss this further with your doctor. Please contact the rooms to arrange a medical certificate if required.
• You are not allowed to drive for 2 weeks.
• It is important you contact the rooms for an appointment with your doctor if this was not arranged before you leave hospital.

You must contact the rooms if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent bleeding and the passing of clots.
• Offensive urine.
• Fever.

• Persistent pain and burning when passing urine.
• Not able to pass urine for 4 hours and/or feeling of bladder fullness and discomfort.