Bladder cancer can develop silently, with early signs often mistaken for minor urinary issues. But acting quickly can make all the difference. One procedure that doctors rely on for both diagnosis and treatment is Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour, also known as TURBT.
It allows specialists to identify and remove suspicious growths in a single procedure, without needing major surgery. If you’ve been referred for TURBT or you’re researching options, understanding how it works can help ease concerns and support informed decisions. Keep reading to find out how this procedure works and why it matters.
Understanding What TURBT Is
TURBT is a minimally invasive procedure used to examine the bladder and remove abnormal tissue for testing. A thin instrument with a camera and surgical loop is passed through the urethra into the bladder. The surgeon then removes the tumour tissue and sends it to a lab to confirm if it’s cancerous.
This approach is commonly used as the first step when bladder cancer is suspected. It helps doctors identify the type, grade, and stage of the cancer, which guides the next treatment steps. If you’re seeking expert care, the TURBT treatment at Urocare offers a modern, patient-focused approach using the latest techniques in bladder cancer diagnosis and removal.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Catching bladder cancer early gives you more treatment options and a better outlook. Most cases diagnosed in the early stages are non-muscle-invasive, meaning the tumour hasn’t spread into the deeper layers of the bladder wall. This type is usually easier to treat and manage.
Delays in diagnosis may allow cancer to grow or spread, which makes treatment more difficult. TURBT helps reduce this risk by quickly removing visible tumours and confirming their nature.
How TURBT Supports Ongoing Treatment
Besides diagnosis, TURBT also plays a key role in treatment. For many people, removing the tumour completely during the procedure may be enough to manage early-stage bladder cancer. If the tumour is low-grade and hasn’t spread, no further treatment may be needed.
However, depending on lab results, your urologist might suggest additional care such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy placed directly into the bladder to reduce the chance of recurrence.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery after TURBT is usually quick. Most people go home the same day or after one night. You might notice blood in your urine or feel some discomfort when passing urine, but this usually settles within a few days.
Your doctor may schedule follow-up tests or another TURBT in a few months to check if any cancer has returned. This close monitoring is essential in managing bladder cancer long-term.
Final Thoughts
TURBT offers a clear path to early detection and targeted treatment for bladder cancer. By removing tumours promptly and analysing them, it allows your care team to act fast and plan the right next steps. It’s a reliable way to deal with bladder issues before they become harder to treat.