How TURBT Surgery can Help with Bladder Cancer?


Bladder cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting millions of people every year. In the early stages, the symptoms of bladder cancer may not be noticeable. However, as it advances, the symptoms such as blood in urine, painful urination, and frequent urination can cause great discomfort and anxiety. In such cases, TURBT surgery is considered one of the most effective treatment options to remove cancerous tissues and improve the quality of life of the patient. In this blog post, we'll explore what TURBT surgery is, how it's performed, and how it can help with bladder cancer.

Understanding Bladder Cancer


Bladder cancer is a cancer that develops in the bladder, a muscular sac in the lower abdomen that holds urine. Bladder cancer typically begins in the cells that line the bladder's interior. The most common type of bladder cancer is called transitional cell carcinoma, which accounts for approximately 90% of all bladder cancer cases.


The exact cause of bladder cancer is unknown, but there are several factors that may increase your risk of developing it, including smoking, exposure to certain chemicals, long-term bladder catheterization, and a history of bladder cancer in your family. Symptoms of bladder cancer include blood in the urine, pain during urination, frequent urination, and back pain.


Early detection is important for the successful treatment of bladder cancer. Your doctor may recommend various tests and procedures, such as urine tests, imaging tests, and a cystoscopy, to diagnose bladder cancer.


Treatment for bladder cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors, such as your age, overall health, and personal preferences. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of all of these therapies may be used as treatment options.


TURBT surgery is a common surgical treatment for early-stage bladder cancer, and it may be recommended if the cancer is limited to the lining of the bladder. It is an effective treatment that can remove cancerous tissue while preserving the bladder and urinary function.


TURBT Surgery: What is it?


The procedure of transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) is utilised for the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer. It is a minimally invasive procedure that involves using a cystoscope (a long, thin tube with a camera) inserted through the urethra to remove cancerous tissue from the bladder lining.


During the procedure, the cystoscope is inserted into the bladder through the urethra and used to view the inside of the bladder. The surgeon then uses special tools to remove the cancerous tissue. The tissue is sent to a lab for testing to determine the type and stage of the cancer.


TURBT surgery is usually done under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours depending on the size and location of the tumor. It is an outpatient procedure, which means patients are usually able to go home the same day.


TURBT surgery is one of the most common treatments for early-stage bladder cancer and is often used in combination with other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. It is also used to remove tumors that have grown into the bladder wall but have not spread to other parts of the body.


Overall, TURBT Surgery In Coimbatore is a safe and effective treatment option for bladder cancer, with a success rate of around 70-80%. However, like any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including bleeding, infection, and damage to nearby organs or tissue. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of TURBT surgery with your doctor to determine if it is the right treatment option for you.


Who is a Candidate for TURBT Surgery?


Not everyone diagnosed with bladder cancer will be a candidate for TURBT surgery. However, this procedure is a common treatment option for patients with non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) – meaning the cancer cells are confined to the lining of the bladder. 


Your healthcare team will assess your medical history, current health, and the stage and location of your bladder cancer to determine if TURBT surgery is an appropriate treatment option for you. They may also perform additional tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, to further evaluate your condition.


Factors that may make you a good candidate for TURBT surgery include:

  • Having NMIBC

  • The cancer is not too large or widespread

  • The cancer has not invaded the muscle layer of the bladder

  • Good overall health and fitness level

  • The ability to undergo general anesthesia

On the other hand, factors that may make TURBT surgery less appropriate for you include:

  • Muscle invasive bladder cancer

  • Other medical conditions that may make surgery more risky

  • An allergy or sensitivity to anesthesia

  • Pregnant women are not typically candidates for this procedure 


Ultimately, your healthcare team will discuss the various treatment options available to you and help determine the best course of action based on your unique situation. It's important to ask questions, express any concerns, and work collaboratively with your healthcare team to make informed decisions about your care.


Risks and Benefits of TURBT Surgery

As with any medical procedure, TURBT surgery has both risks and benefits. Before choosing if this is the correct treatment option for you, you should discuss these with your doctor.

  • TURBT surgery is minimally invasive, meaning there are smaller incisions and less overall trauma to the body.

  • It's an effective treatment option for early-stage bladder cancer, as the tumor can be completely removed.

  • In most cases, TURBT surgery is done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day and have a faster recovery time.

  • There is a possibility of bleeding both before and afterwards the procedure.

  • There's also a chance of infection, as with any surgery.

  • In rare cases, TURBT surgery can cause damage to the bladder, urethra, or surrounding organs.

  • The procedure may need to be repeated if cancer cells remain after the first surgery.


It's important to weigh the risks and benefits with your doctor and decide if TURBT surgery is the right option for you. Your doctor can help you understand any potential risks and prepare you for what to expect during and after the procedure.


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