Transurethral resection of bladder tumour

A ureterorenoscope will be inserted into your bladder through your urethra (waterpipe). We'll then use a low-energy laser to resect (shave off) samples of the tumour. After the procedure, we'll send these samples to a lab to find out if there is a cancerous tumour in your bladder and what grade it is and what stage it is at.

The procedure can take 15 to 90 minutes in the theatre. You'll receive a general anaesthetic or a spinal anaesthetic. Your anaesthetist will discuss both options with you. They'll also explain post-op pain relief.

You may receive an injection of antibiotics before the procedure, after you've been checked for any allergies. We'll also provide you with anti-embolism tights (to wear during the procedure) and may give you an injection to prevent blood clots.

Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you and answer any questions you might have.

You can expect to recover in hospital for up to three days. If we inserted a catheter (thin tube) into your bladder, we'll remove it before you leave.

We'll also give you a follow-up consultation time to discuss the findings of our lab tests. Depending on the results, more tests may be required.

You'll probably notice blood in your urine for a few days after the procedure. And you may experience bleeding for up to three weeks after the procedure. This is known as a second haemorrhage and is often the result of a bladder infection. If the bleeding stops you from passing urine, you should contact your GP or urologist immediately, or visit A&E.