TURBT · Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor in Bangkok

Your subsequent treatment depends entirely on the pathology results from the tumor removed. If you have non-muscle-invasive low-grade disease, TURBT followed by regular surveillance cystoscopy might be all you need. For non-muscle-invasive high-grade disease, you'll likely receive TURBT plus intravesical BCG immunotherapy or chemotherapy directly into your bladder. If muscle-invasive disease is found, more extensive treatment planning is crucial, potentially involving a radical cystectomy or chemoradiation.

For most non-muscle-invasive bladder cancers, you can expect a cystoscopy every 3 months for the first 2 years after your TURBT. If these initial checks are clear, the frequency typically decreases to every 6 months for the next 2 years, then annually. The exact schedule for your follow-up will be tailored to your specific risk category and the findings from each cystoscopy, ensuring close monitoring of your bladder health.

The most common risks include blood in your urine, which usually resolves within 1 to 2 weeks, and temporary urinary frequency or urgency for a few days. You might also experience a urinary tract infection. Less common but possible risks include bladder perforation, which is rare and often managed by extending your catheterization for a few days, and the need for a repeat TURBT if the initial resection was incomplete, which occurs in about 5-10% of cases.

Most patients can return to light daily activities within a few days after TURBT. Your urinary catheter is typically removed within 24-48 hours. We advise avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about 2 to 3 weeks to allow your bladder to heal properly. You can generally resume sexual activity once any blood in your urine has completely cleared, usually within 1-2 weeks.

The cost of your TURBT in Bangkok will vary based on several factors. These include the size and number of tumors removed, your chosen type of anesthesia, the length of your hospital admission, and whether you require immediate intravesical chemotherapy after the procedure. To receive a precise and personalized quote tailored to your specific needs, we highly recommend booking a consultation with our specialist.

TURBT is highly effective for diagnosing and treating non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. For low-grade tumors, the recurrence rate can be as low as 15-20% at 5 years with proper surveillance. For high-grade tumors, recurrence rates are higher, around 50-70%, emphasizing the need for additional intravesical therapy and vigilant follow-up. Your long-term outcome significantly improves with early detection and adherence to your personalized surveillance schedule.

For your TURBT procedure, you will typically receive either general anesthesia, where you are completely asleep, or spinal anesthesia, which numbs you from the waist down while you remain awake but sedated. Our anesthesiologist will discuss both options with you, considering your medical history and preferences. They will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure, explaining the benefits and risks of each choice.

At your consultation, you'll meet with our experienced urologist to discuss your symptoms and medical history. We'll review any previous scans or tests you've had. We may perform a physical exam and recommend a urine test or imaging if needed. We'll explain the TURBT procedure in detail, discuss potential findings, and collaboratively decide on the best course of action for your bladder health.

We recommend arriving in Bangkok at least 1-2 days before your scheduled TURBT for pre-operative assessments. You can typically fly home 3-5 days after your procedure, once your catheter is removed and you're stable. Post-operative follow-up and pathology results can often be communicated via secure messaging like WhatsApp, ensuring continuous care even after you return home.