Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor – Elements of the Surgical Technique

Abstract

Summary Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is one of the common uro-oncological interventions for diagnosing, staging, and treating bladder cancer, particularly in non–muscle-invasive and select muscle-invasive cases. As a minimally invasive, repeatable procedure performed through natural orifices, TURBT aims to achieve complete tumor excision and provide sufficient tissue for histopathological evaluation, including tumor type, grade, and stage. However, considerable variability in the technical proficiency of urologists affects the quality of resection and clinical outcomes. Evidence suggests optimal results are typically attained after 100 to 170 TURBT procedures, particularly in complex cases. To enhance surgical quality and reduce the likelihood of early recurrence, particularly in non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer, the adoption of standardized protocols and surgical checklists is recommended. Despite its deceptively simple appearance, TURBT remains the cornerstone of bladder cancer management, with continuous refinement in surgical technique and adherence to best practices critical for achieving favorable oncological outcomes.