TURBT (Transurethral Resection of the Bladder Tumor)

TURBT (Transurethral Resection of the Bladder Tumor) is a procedure that involves removal of 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 - usually about two hours after surgery.
2. If you are on COUMADIN, ASPIRIN, IBUPROFEN, or drugs for ARTHRITIS or INFLAMMATION, please discontinue.
3. If you take blood pressure 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 call the office.
5. No eating or drinking after midnight the night before your surgery except for blood pressure or heart medicine as above.
6. No alcohol 24 hours prior to surgery.
7. We suggest you wear comfortable clothing.
8. You will be receiving anesthesia for this surgery. You will see an anesthesiologist who will discuss this with you prior to your surgery. If you are having general anesthesia, you will require a ride home.

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, catheter may be left in after the 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 make sure you take all of your antibiotics.
4. If you are taking aspirin, blood thinners (such as Coumadin), or anti-inflammatory drugs (Motrin, Ibuprofen, etc.)

DO NOT RESUME TAKING THEM UNTIL TOLD BY PHYSICIAN.
INSTRUCTIONS - POST TURBT

DIET:

1. It is okay to eat or drink whatever you want.
2. We encourage you to increase your fluid intake.

ACTIVITY:

1. No heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for six weeks.
2. It is okay to shower after discharge from the Hospital. No baths until you are seen in follow-up.
3. It is okay to climb stairs when discharged from the Hospital.
4. Walking is good exercise and it improve the circulation. Do not overdo it! Go easy at first and slowly increase distance as you feel better.
5. DRIVING: It is okay to drive if you feel up to it.
6. SEXUAL ACTIVITY: No sexual activity for 3-4 weeks.

ANTIBIOTICS:

You will be given a prescription for antibiotics to take at home when discharged from the Hospital. Please make sure you take all of your antibiotics.

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 your bowels. Always make
sure the tubes are not kinked so the urine flows freely.

BOWELS:

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

You will notice some bleeding and small clots when you urinate (pass your water). This is normal. If you have continuous bleeding with passage of large clots, or if you are unable to urinate please call the office.