Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) is a surgical procedure predominantly used to diagnose bladder cancer and remove cancerous tissue from the bladder. The procedure serves as both a diagnostic and therapeutic approach, and when it comes to TURBT, the utmost precision and care are paramount.
This article delves into the intricacies of TURBT, touching on the procedure, recovery phase, and long-term management after the surgery.
The Procedure
Preparation
Before undergoing a TURBT procedure, your urologist will conduct a series of tests to ensure your suitability for the surgery. This may include blood tests, imaging scans, and cystoscopy – an examination of the bladder using a small camera.
The Operation
TURBT is conducted under general or spinal anaesthesia, which means you’ll be either fully unconscious or numb from the waist down. During the surgery, a resectoscope (a combination of a camera and a surgical tool) is inserted into the bladder via the urethra.
Once the tumour is identified, it is cut and removed. Any remaining cancerous tissue can be burnt away using an electric current.
One standout feature of this method is that it doesn’t necessitate any external incisions, significantly reducing post-operative pain and healing time.
Recovery
Immediate Aftercare
Upon completion of the surgery, a catheter might be placed to drain urine from your bladder. This facilitates the healing process and prevents complications that could arise from urinating immediately after the procedure.
In most cases, patients can expect to stay in the hospital for 1-3 days. During this period, it’s normal to notice blood in the urine. This usually subsides within a few days.
Pain Management
Most patients experience minimal pain following the surgery. However, discomfort from the catheter and a burning sensation while urinating are common. Over-the-counter painkillers are usually sufficient to manage this, but it’s always advised to consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Long-Term Recovery
While the majority of patients bounce back rather quickly, it’s essential to adhere to post-operative guidelines. These include:
- Dietary Changes: It’s recommended to drink ample water to flush out the bladder and dilute the urine. Avoiding caffeine and acidic foods can also minimise irritation during the recovery period.
- Activity: Refrain from strenuous activities for at least two weeks post-surgery. This includes heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and sexual activity.
- Regular Check-Ups: Regular follow-ups are crucial in monitoring recovery and ensuring that all traces of the cancer have been removed.
Long-Term Management
Surveillance
Even after a successful TURBT procedure, there’s a risk of bladder cancer recurrence. Therefore, regular cystoscopies are typically scheduled for several years post-surgery. The frequency of these examinations might reduce over time, but they remain a vital part of long-term management.
Lifestyle Modifications
Patients are often encouraged to make certain lifestyle changes to minimise the risk of recurrence. These might include quitting smoking, maintaining a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise.
Within the realm of TURBT, some service providers have established a reputation for excellence. One such notable mention is the Urocare TURBT procedure. Famed for its precision and patient-centric approach, this specific procedure offers both clinicians and patients added confidence in the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer.
Conclusion
TURBT stands as a significant advancement in the treatment of bladder cancer, combining both diagnostic and therapeutic interventions into a single procedure. With advancements, there’s an even greater assurance of positive outcomes for patients.
Nevertheless, the importance of adhering to post-operative guidelines and maintaining regular check-ups cannot be stressed enough, as these steps are integral to the long-term health and well-being of the patient.
