Best Practices to Optimise Quality and Outcomes of Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumours

Abstract

Context: Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) for bladder cancer (BC) is an underappreciated common urological procedure. TURBT outcomes are highly variable, and results are dependent on judgement and surgical skill.

Objective: To perform a narrative review and identify optimal best practice in TURBT including preparation, choice of equipment, procedural steps, surgical technique, and management of difficult scenarios and complications.

Evidence acquisition: Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched. Important studies were identified and reviewed by an international panel of urologists representing major urological societies and guideline panels with a record of academic publication in this field. In areas where the group identified a lack of evidence or agreement, discussions took place until a consensus was reached.

Evidence synthesis: A total of 814 studies were identified and 43 were included. The majority were retrospective (level of evidence 3), with only two prospective randomised trials. Four broad themes were identified, which formed the basis for the review: (1) the role of TURBT within the overall management of BC, (2) TURBT techniques, (3) measurement of outcomes including quality control and checklists, and (4) postoperative management. Familiarity with all aspects of the procedure is necessary to minimise morbidity and improve oncological outcomes. Development of new instruments and techniques, and prospective audit of TURBT outcomes are important future goals.

Conclusions: TURBT is a common and challenging operation with known variable outcomes. To reduce these variations and optimise outcomes, best practice based on evidence and expert opinion is recommended.

Patient summary: Transurethral resection of bladder tumour (TURBT) is a common but deceptively difficult urological operation. Optimal outcomes depend on experience and surgical skill. An international group of experienced TURBT surgeons review critical aspects of the procedure and share best practice to stimulate further discussion.

Keywords: Bladder cancer; Non–muscle invasive; Outcome; Quality; Surgical technique; Transurethral resection of bladder tumour.