A Transurethral Resection of a Bladder Tumor (TURBT) is a common procedure for diagnosing and treating bladder cancer. It involves removing abnormal growths from the bladder lining through the urethra using a resectoscope. Following a TURBT, the body begins a healing process that unfolds over several weeks.
The Typical Healing Journey
Most individuals can expect their bladder to heal symptomatically within two to four weeks after a TURBT procedure. The initial five to seven days following surgery are particularly important for resting and allowing the bladder to begin its recovery. During this period, avoiding strenuous activity helps minimize the risk of bleeding.
Common post-operative symptoms include blood in the urine (hematuria), which can appear as pink or red and may persist intermittently for up to three to six weeks. Patients may also experience pain or a burning sensation during urination (dysuria), and increased urinary frequency or urgency. These urinary symptoms typically improve within a week, though they can occasionally last up to a month.
Around one to two weeks post-surgery, a temporary increase in bleeding can occur as the internal “scab” detaches from the bladder wall. This is a normal part of the healing process, with full internal tissue healing often taking up to six weeks.
Factors Affecting Recovery
The healing timeline after a TURBT can vary significantly among individuals due to several influencing factors. The size and number of tumors removed play a considerable role; larger or more numerous resections generally lead to a longer recovery period. The depth of the resection, indicating how far into the bladder wall the tumor was removed, can also impact the duration of healing. A patient’s overall health and any pre-existing medical conditions, such as age, can also influence how quickly they recover.
The occurrence of post-operative complications can further extend the healing process. Persistent bleeding can prolong recovery. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are another potential complication, affecting approximately one in ten patients, and can cause symptoms like increased urgency, pain, or cloudy urine. In some instances, a catheter may be placed after the procedure, particularly if larger tumors were removed or significant bleeding occurred, which can affect initial comfort and mobility.
Managing Your Recovery
Managing recovery effectively after a TURBT involves several practical steps to support healing and alleviate symptoms. Pain can be managed with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen, or prescribed pain relievers; applying a heating pad may also provide comfort. It is generally advised to avoid aspirin or ibuprofen initially if there is ongoing bleeding. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids is beneficial, as this helps to flush the bladder, reduce the risk of infection, and clear any blood in the urine. Avoiding caffeine is also recommended, as it can irritate the bladder.
Activity restrictions are important to prevent complications. Patients should avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for two to four weeks, with some recommendations extending this to six weeks. Sexual activity should also be avoided for two to four weeks. Light activities, such as walking, are generally encouraged as tolerated. It is important to contact a healthcare provider immediately if experiencing an inability to urinate, passing large blood clots, a fever above 101°F (38°C) with or without chills, severe pain, or worsening bleeding.