Transurethral Resection Discharge Instructions

Discharge Instructions for Transurethral Bladder Tumor Resection (surgery to remove a bladder tumor). During the procedure, a surgeon inserts a thin, lighted tube (cystoscope) into the bladder through the urethra - the part of your body carrying urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. The surgeon uses a special tool to either remove the cancer or burn it away with high-energy electricity.

Care at home
Take care of your catheter the way you were instructed in the hospital. Wash the tubing at least twice a day.

• Don’t be alarmed by brownish or reddish blood or clots in your urine. This is a normal result of the procedure. However, do call your doctor if the blood does'nt start to go away within 72 hours after you return home.
• Drink plenty of fluids during the day (keeping your urine very light colored). This will help maintain a healthy flow of urine.
• Don’t drive until the doctor says it’s okay to do so.
• Don’t return to work until after the doctor advises it’s okay.
• Don’t perform any heavy lifting for three weeks after the procedure.
• Don’t lift anything weighing more than eight pounds.
• Don’t lift weights.
• Don’t lift infants or children.
• Don’t mow the lawn, use a vacuum cleaner, etc. 

• Try to avoid constipation.

  • Take a laxative or stool softener as directed by your doctor.

  • Eat high-fiber foods.

Be sure to finish all of the antibiotics that your doctor prescribed. Once the catheter is removed, you should expect some blood in your urine and some burning when you urinate.

Follow-Up
Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.

When to Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of the following:

• Bright red blood appearing in the urine
• Fever over 100.4°F
• Difficulty urinating
• Pain or cramping in the abdomen that doesn't go away.