The first step in bladder tumor care
Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT) is the most common procedure to diagnose, biopsy, and remove bladder tumors. Performed through the natural urinary passage with no external incision, TURBT is often the first step in confirming whether a bladder tumor is cancerous and determining the best path forward.
We understand this feels overwhelming
If you have been told you may have a bladder tumor, you may need a procedure called transurethral resection of bladder tumor. At Prestige Medical Group, we understand that hearing the words “bladder tumor” can feel overwhelming. Our goal is to provide clear answers, expert evaluation, and compassionate care so you understand what TURBT is, why it is performed, and what to expect before and after your procedure.
What is TURBT?
Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose, biopsy, and remove abnormal growths from the bladder. During the procedure, a urologist passes a thin instrument called a cystoscope through the urethra into the bladder. A small wire loop or other tool is then used to remove the tumor and sometimes cauterize the area.
Because the procedure is done through the natural urinary passage, there is no external incision. TURBT is often the first step in confirming whether a bladder tumor is cancerous and determining how deeply it involves the bladder wall.
Is TURBT a treatment or a diagnostic procedure?
TURBT is often both. That’s what makes it so valuable in bladder cancer care — a single procedure can confirm what’s there and start treating it at the same time.
An essential diagnostic step
For deeper or more aggressive tumors, TURBT is an essential diagnostic step that helps determine whether additional treatment is needed — such as intravesical therapy, repeat TURBT, bladder removal surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or combination treatment.
The initial treatment itself
For many early bladder tumors, TURBT can remove the visible tumor and serve as the initial treatment. For non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer especially, TURBT is often the primary intervention.
When TURBT is recommended
TURBT may be recommended if you have any of the following findings during evaluation.
Blood in the urine (hematuria)
One of the most common signs that warrants bladder evaluation
Bladder mass on imaging
A growth visible on CT, ultrasound, or other imaging studies
Abnormal urine cytology
Suspicious cells found during microscopic urine examination
Suspicious lesion during cystoscopy
An abnormal area seen during diagnostic bladder examination
Known cancer needing treatment
Previously diagnosed bladder cancer requiring treatment or repeat evaluation
Staging more advanced tumors
Helping determine the depth and extent of more aggressive growths
The procedure
From scope insertion to pathology submission — the four core steps of the procedure.
Scope inserted
Your urologist inserts a scope through the urethra into the bladder.
Tumor located
Direct visualization is used to locate the tumor within the bladder.
Tumor removed
The tumor is removed using a special instrument (typically a wire loop).
Sent to pathology
Tissue is sent to the lab for pathology analysis to guide next steps.
Four critical questions answered
The pathology report from the resected tissue helps determine four key things about the tumor. This information is critical because it guides the next step in treatment.
In some cases, the bladder lining around the tumor is also treated with electrical energy — a process called fulguration — to destroy any remaining abnormal cells.
This is a surgical procedure
Although TURBT requires no external incision, it is performed in the operating room under anesthesia. You’ll need to follow standard pre-operative instructions — including fasting and any guidance about your medications, especially blood thinners.
Your provider will discuss the anesthesia plan and arrange for transportation home before your procedure.
What to expect before & after
Getting ready
Common aftereffects
Recovery varies depending on the size and number of tumors removed, but many patients go home the same day. Your doctor will give you specific instructions about activity, hydration, and follow-up.
Will I need a second TURBT?
Sometimes, yes. A second TURBT may be recommended a few weeks later — especially if the original tumor was large, high-grade, or invading deeper layers, or if the surgeon needs to ensure all visible tumor has been removed and properly staged.
This is a common part of bladder cancer care for selected patients and helps ensure the most accurate assessment and the best long-term outcome.
Why TURBT is the standard approach
No external incision
Performed through the natural urinary passage
Minimally invasive
Lower impact than open or major bladder surgery
Diagnose & stage
Helps diagnose and stage bladder tumors accurately
Removes early tumors
Can remove many early bladder tumors
Often outpatient
Many patients return home the same day
Tissue for pathology
Provides tissue for accurate pathology analysis
Let us help guide you
If you’ve been told you may have a bladder tumor, schedule a consultation with our urology team. We’ll review your case carefully, explain every step in plain language, and support you through evaluation, treatment, and follow-up — with the time and compassion this deserves.