Introduction

Untreated or undetected bladder tumors are a serious concern for your health. Bladder Tumor Removing Surgery is one of the most common methods to treat these tumors. It aims to remove any cancerous or benign growths in the bladder. This surgery is not only used to treat bladder cancer, but it also helps diagnose the grade and stage of the disease.

This detailed guide will cover the following: what is bladder tumor removal surgery? Why it’s necessary, how it’s done, what you can expect before and after surgery.

What is Bladder Tumor Removal Surgery ?

The Bladder Tumor Surgery is a medical treatment designed to eliminate abnormal growths from the inner lining the bladder. These tumors can be either cancerous (malignant), or benign (benign). Their removal is crucial for both diagnosis and treatment.

Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is the most common surgical technique. This is a minimally-invasive surgery. It’s performed through the urethra without external cuts.

Why does the surgery take place?

The surgery may be recommended for several reasons:

1. Diagnosis :- Collecting tissue samples to determine whether the tumor is malignant.

2. Treatment :- To remove or prevent the spread of a tumor.

3. Symptom Relief :- Stop or reduce symptoms such as blood in urine and frequent urination.

This surgery is recommended for patients who have symptoms like hematuria (blood in the urine) or pain in the pelvis. frequent or painful urinary infections or undiagnosed urinary infection.

Different Types of Bladder Tumor Removing Surgery

1. Transurethral resection of Bladder tumor (TURBT) :- Most common in early stage (non-muscle-invasive) bladder carcinomas. Use a Resectoscope that is inserted into the urethra. No cuts on the abdominal area

2. Partial Cystectomy :- Removing a part of the bladder. When the tumor is localized to a single area, this treatment may be used. Incision abdominal is required.

3. Radical Cystectomy :- Complete removal of bladder. Recommended for bladder cancer with muscle invasion. Reconstruction of a new route for urine to leave the body.

Pre-surgery Preparation

Your doctor will walk you through the necessary steps before undergoing surgery to remove a bladder tumor:

1. Medical Assessment :- Includes a urine test, blood tests, imaging scans, (CT, MRI or ultrasound), as well as a cystoscopy.

2. Anesthesia Discussion :- Most TURBT procedures take place under general or spinal anesthesia.

3. Medication Reviews :- You might need to temporarily stop taking blood thinners and other medications.

4. Fasting :- Patients usually need to fast 6-8 hours prior to surgery.

The doctor will explain in detail the procedure, its risks and recovery process.

What happens during surgery?

1. Anesthesia :- You will be given either spinal, or anesthesia general to ensure that you don’t feel any pain.

2. Scope Injection :- A Resectoscope is inserted into your bladder through the urethra.

3. Tumor removal :- The surgeon uses the surgical loop to identify and remove the tumor. To control bleeding, the surgeon cauterizes it.

4. Tissue collection :- The removed tissues are sent to a lab for biopsy in order to determine the cancer stage and grade.

5. Catheter insertion :- A catheter can be used to monitor bleeding and drain urine.

The procedure usually takes 30 to 1 hour depending on the size and number of tumors.

Post-Surgery Rehabilitation

You will be taken to a Recovery Room where doctors will monitor your vitals. Some patients go home on the very same day while others may stay overnight.

What to Expect

Blood In Urine mild bruising is common, and can last for a few weeks.
Burning sensation during urination.
Urinary Frequency or Urgency.

Recovery Tips

Drink lots of water for a flushing bladder.
Avoid strenuous or heavy lifting for at least 2 weeks.
Take your medication (pain relievers and antibiotics) exactly as prescribed.
Avoid caffeine, alcohol and spicy food as they may cause bladder irritation.

Once the bleeding has stopped, it is common to remove the catheter within a couple of days.

Follow-Up After Surgery

Follow-up for bladder cancer is important because it has a very high recurrence. Your doctor may recommend:

Repeat cystoscopy after 3 months.
If the tumor is high grade or has not been completely removed, will be used.
Intravesical Therapy (e.g. BCG or chemotherapy drugs directly into the bladder) for reducing recurrence.

Complications and Risks

Although TURBT is generally considered to be safe, there are some risks that may occur.

1. Infection :- Can cause fever or painful urination.

2. Bleeding :- Usually mild but may require medical attention.

3. Urinary Retention :- Temporary difficulty urinating.

4. Bladder Perforation :- Rare but serious. Additional treatment may be required.

5. Recurrence of tumor :- This requires regular follow-ups.

Report any symptoms such as severe pain or bleeding immediately to your doctor.

Who Should undergo Bladder Tumor Surgery?

You could be a TURBT candidate if you:

You have non-muscle invasive bladder cancer.
A cystoscopy may reveal suspicious growths.
You are experiencing urinary symptom which may indicate a bladder tumour.
To determine the type of tumor and its severity, you need to perform a biopsies.

Some patients with advanced tumors will require a radical or partial cystectomy along with other treatment options.

Life After Surgery

With the right care, life after bladder cancer removal can be positive and manageable. Patients are advised:

Quit smoking (a major risk factor for bladder cancer)
Stay hydrated
Follow-up with your urologist
Follow all after-surgery plans including intravesical therapies, if recommended

Conclusion

Bladder Tumor Removal Surgery is a crucial and effective treatment for bladder tumors in the early stages. It is minimally-invasive, allows for quick recovery and plays an important role in diagnosis. Long-term Monitoring and Lifestyle Changes Are Essential to Maintain Health and Prevent Future Tumors.

Consult a qualified Urologist if you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with a bladder cancer. You can discuss the options available and develop a treatment plan that will support both your health and quality-of-life.