TURBT for Bladder Cancer: Procedure, Recovery and Side Effects 

October 20, 2025

A Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT) is a minimally invasive surgery used to diagnose and treat bladder cancer by removing tumors through the urethra. It helps determine cancer stage and grade. Most procedures take under an hour, with recovery typically lasting 2–4 weeks. 

What is a TURBT procedure? 

A TURBT (Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor) is the most common procedure used to: 

• Diagnose bladder cancer.  

• Remove bladder tumors.  

• Determine cancer stage and grade   

It is performed using a resectoscope, a specialized instrument inserted through the urethra into the bladder. 

Unlike traditional surgery, TURBT does not require external incisions. 

Doctors recommend TURBT when symptoms suggest bladder cancer, including: 

• Blood in urine (hematuria)  

• Frequent urination  

• Pain during urination  

• Lower back or pelvic pain  

Key goals of TURBT: 

• Remove visible tumors 

• Prevent cancer progression  
• Collect tissue for pathology analysis 

How is a TURBT performed? 

The TURBT procedure is done under general or spinal anesthesia. 

Step-by-step: 

1. A resectoscope is inserted through the urethra  

2. A wire loop removes tumor tissue  

3. Heat (electrocautery) seals blood vessels  

4. Tissue is sent to a pathologist  

Key facts: 

• Takes about 30–60 minutes  

• No external cuts  

• Can be safely repeated if needed  

What are TURBT side effects? 

Common side effects after TURBT include blood in the urine, burning during urination, frequent urination and mild discomfort. These symptoms are usually temporary and improve as the bladder heals.

Common side effects: 

• Burning during urination  

• Blood in urine (pink-colored urine)  

• Frequent urination  

• Mild pain  

Less common risks: 

• Urinary tract infection  

• Bleeding requiring treatment  

• Bladder perforation (rare) 

What is TURBT recovery like?

Recovery varies, but most patients heal within 2–4 weeks. 

What to expect: 

• Rest for the first 5–7 days  

• Avoid heavy lifting for 2–3 weeks  

• Drink fluids to flush the bladder  

• Temporary catheter use (if needed)  

When to call your doctor: 

• Fever over 101°F  

• Large blood clots in urine  

• Inability to urinate  
• Severe pain or vomiting

What happens after TURBT?

After surgery: 

• Tumor tissue is analyzed by a pathologist  

• Results determine cancer stage and grade
• Additional steps may include:  

• Intravesical therapy (e.g., BCG)

• Imaging (CT scans)  
• Follow-up cystoscopies

What are the risks of TURBT?

•  Bleeding  

• Infection  

• Anesthesia complications  

• Rare bladder injury 

TURBT frequently asked questions

How long does a TURBT  procedure take? 

A TURBT typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on tumor size and complexity. 

Is TURBT major surgery? 

No. TURBT is a minimally invasive procedure, not major surgery. TURBT can be more complex if there are with larger or multiple tumors. 

Is a TURBT the same as a bladder biopsy? 

No. A bladder biopsy removes a small tissue sample, while TURBT removes tumors and deeper tissue for diagnosis and treatment.

What treatments may be given after TURBT?

TURBT may be followed by intravesical BCG or chemotherapy. Additional treatment depends on stage and type. Learn more about bladder cancer treatments.

What is the most common complication of TURBT? 

 The most common complication after TURBT is bleeding. It usually stops in a few days. 

Will I need another TURBT? 

You may need to have a repeat TURBT in 2-6 weeks to completely remove the tumor or to get a deeper biopsy sample for the pathologist to examine.

TURBT Resources

Learn more by watching the Understanding TURBT and Cystoscopy webinar with Drs. Jeff Montgomery and Ken Nepple.

Click here to read our Get the Facts | TURBT (PDF), filled with advice from patients who have experienced it.

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Information and services provided by the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) are for informational purposes only. The information and services are not intended to be substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are ill, or suspect that you are ill, seek professional medical attention immediately! BCAN does not recommend or endorse any specific physicians, treatments, procedures or products even though they may be mentioned on this site.