My urologist is telling me that I may have to have my bladder scraped. What does this consist of? Is it done through the penis?
Hello.
A bladder scraping, medically known as a transurethral resection of the bladder (TURBT), is a common procedure used to diagnose, stage, and treat bladder cancer or other abnormalities within the bladder. Here's what the procedure typically involves:
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Procedure Approach: The procedure is usually performed through the urethra, which means there is no external incision. A surgical instrument called a cystoscope or a resectoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder.
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Removal of Tissue: The surgeon uses the instrument to scrape away or resect the tumor or abnormal tissue from the bladder wall. This is done using a small wire loop at the end of the instrument, which can cut tissue and seal blood vessels to minimize bleeding.
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Diagnostic and Therapeutic: The removed tissue is often sent to a lab for analysis, which can help in diagnosing the condition, determining its stage, and planning further treatment if necessary. The procedure itself can also be therapeutic if the goal is to remove tumors or abnormal tissue.
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Anesthesia: TURBT is typically performed under general or spinal anesthesia.
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Recovery: After the procedure, there may be some discomfort, and patients often have a catheter placed temporarily to help with urination. Recovery time can vary, but most people can resume normal activities within a couple of weeks.
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Risks and Complications: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including bleeding, infection, or injury to the bladder. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you prior to the procedure.
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Postoperative Care: Follow-up care is important to monitor for any recurrence of tumors or other issues. Your doctor may recommend regular cystoscopies to keep an eye on the bladder.
Hope this answers all your questions. If you have any more, feel free to ask.