Bladder Tumor Resection (TURBT)

Transurethral resection of a bladder tumor (TURBT) is a procedure that involves removal of the bladder tumor with cauterization (burning of the tissue).

Preparing for Surgery – Things you should know:

1. You will be admitted to the Hospital the day of your surgery. You will be discharged when you are fully awake, alert, and taking fluids by mouth – ( anywhere from about two hours after surgery to the next day).
2. If you are on Coumadin , Aspirin, Ibuprophen, or other Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (or blood thinners) you will need to discontinue the medicine 5 days prior to your surgery unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
3. If you are on blood pressure or heart medication you may take it with a sip of water the morning of your surgery.
4. If you take antibiotics prior to dental work or have an orthopedic prosthesis, or if you were told by another physician to take antibiotics prior to surgery, please let your doctor know.
5. No eating or drinking after midnight the night before your surgery except for blood pressure or medications as mentioned above. No alcohol 24 hours prior to surgery. After midnight do not consume any solid foods.
6. You will be receiving anesthesia for this surgery. You will see an anesthesiologist who will discuss this with you prior to surgery. You will require a ride home.
7. We suggest you wear comfortable clothing.
8. The risks of this surgery include but are not limited to reactions to general anesthesia, bleeding, infection, and difficulty urinating.

Recovering from surgery – What to expect:

1. Most patients are discharged the same day, usually 2-3 hours after surgery. If you need to stay overnight, further instructions will be given as necessary.
2. Depending on the size of the bladder tumor and the extent of surgery, the catheter may be left in after surgery. A catheter is a tube placed in the bladder to drain your urine. You will receive further instructions from your doctor.
3. You will be given a prescription for antibiotics. Please be sure you take them all.
4. If you are on blood thinners (Coumadin, Aspirin, Non-steroidal Medicines) be sure to ask your doctor when to resume them.

Instructions Post-TURBT:

Diet: There are no dietary restrictions, we encourage you to increase your fluid intake.

Activity:

1. No heavy lifting of strenuous exercise for six weeks.
2. It is OK to shower after discharge from the Hospital. No baths until you are seen in follow-up.
3. It is OK to climb stairs when discharged for the hospital.
4. Walking is good exercise and it improves circulation. DonÕt overdo it! Go easy at first and slowly increase the distance as you feel better.
5. It is OK to drive if you feel up to it.
6. No sexual activity for 3-4 weeks.

Antibiotics: You may be given a prescription for antibiotics to be taken at home when discharged from the hospital. Please take all of your prescribed medication.

Foley Catheter: Most patients have their catheter removed prior to being discharged. If you go home with the catheter it may remain in for about 1-2 weeks after the procedure. It is normal to feel some pressure and discomfort. It is also normal to experience some leaking around the catheter or to have some blood in the urine around the catheter when you move you bowels. Always make sure the tubes are not kinked so the urine flows freely If the tube becomes plugged please call our office. Once the catheter is removed you may notice some bleeding and small clots when you urinate. This is normal. If you have continuous bleeding with the passage of large clots or if you are unable to urinate please call the office.

Bowels: One should avoid straining during a bowel movement. You may be given a stool softener to promote regular bowel movements. Over the counter Milk of Magnesia 30 cc is recommended if your stools are hard.

Follow up: Call our office to make an appointment 1-2 weeks after your surgery.