Closed-loop audit of muscle sampling in Trans-Urethral Resection of Bladder Tumour

Abstract

Introduction: Our experience with the presence of detrusor muscle (DM) following Trans-Urethral Resection of Bladder Tumour (TURBT). Objectives: To evaluate the presence of DM in primary TURBT specimens as a quality improvement exercise in Frimley Park Hospital, UK. And to assess if the level of the surgeon has impact on outcomes. Methods: Retrospective and prospective analysis of the electronic records from a single urology centre, servicing a group of urologists. Data collected over three consecutive audit loops between January 2014 and May 2018. Results: A total of 301 cases were performed under the care of seven consultant urologists. Analysis revealed a significant improvement in the overall quality of resections from 39% to 66% (50–84% for intermediate and high grade) after the introduction of the following interventions: (1) analysis and improved awareness of current practice; (2) introduction of European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines by separating samples and sending a second specimen pot marked as bladder tumour base to look for DM; (3) dedicated urologists with an interest in bladder cancer performing en-bloc resection technique in appropriate cases. Conclusion: Through our closed-loop audits, we have demonstrated a considerable improvement in the quality of resections, resulting in accurate staging from the initial resection. This could in turn lead to improved over all prognoses and negating the need for re-resection in all cases of high-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). Level of evidence: 3