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Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is a medical procedure that is used to remove tumors from the surface of the bladder wall. The bladder is accessed through the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body from the bladder. TURBT is an alternative to open surgery, during which a large incision is made in the belly in order to reach the bladder.
After anesthesia is given, a resectoscope (an instrument with a telescope and small, electrified wire loop) is inserted into the urethra until it reaches the bladder. The telescope allows the doctor to examine the inside of the bladder for signs of tumors or lesions. If present, the metal loop can be used to cut and remove them.
The resectoscope may also be used to take samples (biopsy) of the tumor, as well as a portion of the healthy-looking tissue inside the bladder. These samples will be examined under a microscope to look for bladder cancer cells, and to determine how advanced or aggressive the cancer is.
TURBT, which is done using either regional or general anesthesia, takes about an hour. It is usually performed as an outpatient procedure in a hospital. An overnight stay of 1 to 3 days, however, may be required for some.
This procedure is not ideal for those with large and aggressive bladder tumors, or for those who have had recurring tumors. Instead, other cancer treatments like chemotherapy will likely be recommended.