What is TURBT?
- TURBT stands for transurethral removal of bladder tumor
- This is removal of a bladder tumor via a telescope inserted through the urethra
- No cuts are made on the outside of the body
Why do I need this?
To remove a bladder tumor and determine if it is a cancer and its extent
How long does it take?
20 – 40 minutes under a general anaesthetic
What are the risks?
- Bleeding and blood clots in urine
- Need for blood transfusion
- Infection in urine or blood (sepsis) – antibiotics are given
- Perforation of the bladder
What can I expect after surgery?
- A catheter may remain overnight to drain urine and wash out any blood clots
- Hospital stay is 2 – 3 days
- You may have some urinary frequency, urgency or blood in your urine during recovery, which can take up to 6 weeks to settle
