Hypothesis / aims of study
*Hypothesis:*
Day-case Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumours (TURBT) can be safely implemented without compromising postoperative continence, bladder function, or patient outcomes, and can serve as the default approach unless contraindicated by specific patient or tumour factors.
*Aim of the Study:*
The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of day-case TURBT, with a specific focus on postoperative continence, bladder function, and patient recovery. Additionally, the study aims to compare our institution's day-case rates with national benchmarks and identify areas for improvement in patient selection, documentation, and discharge planning to optimise day-case TURBT practices.
This hypothesis and aim align with the broader goal of improving patient care and operational efficiency in urological surgery, while ensuring that continence and bladder function are preserved.
Study design, materials and methods
This retrospective, single-centre study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of day-case Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumours (TURBT) in 59 patients undergoing elective TURBT between March and May 2024. Data were collected from electronic medical records, including operative notes, discharge summaries, and follow-up clinic notes. Variables analyzed included patient demographics, tumour characteristics, length of stay (LOS), admission decisions, postoperative complications, continence status, and bladder function recovery. Patient-reported outcomes on satisfaction and quality of life were also assessed. Descriptive statistics summarized the data, while comparative analysis evaluated day-case rates against national benchmarks and regional UAN data. Multivariate analysis identified factors influencing same-day discharge and postoperative continence. Ethical guidelines were followed, with patient data anonymized. The study aimed to improve documentation, standardize admission criteria, and optimize patient selection for day-case TURBT, ensuring patient-centred outcomes, particularly continence and bladder function, were prioritized. Recommendations were made to enhance practice and close the audit cycle.
Results
Of 59 patients undergoing elective TURBT, 47% were discharged on the same day, while 38% stayed for one day, 9% for two days, and 6% for over two days. The overall admission rate was 55%, with 44% of admission decisions made preoperatively and 20% intraoperatively. Tumor size was undocumented in 42% of cases. Postoperative continence was maintained in 92% of patients, with transient incontinence in 8%. Bladder function returned to baseline within one week for 85% of patients. Complications were low (6 out of 59 patients), with no significant impact on continence. Day-case rates exceeded national averages, demonstrating the feasibility of same-day discharge without compromising outcomes.
Interpretation of results
The results demonstrate that day-case Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumours (TURBT) is feasible and safe, with 47% of patients successfully discharged on the same day. The low complication rate (6 out of 59 patients) and high rates of maintained continence (92%) suggest that day-case TURBT does not compromise patient outcomes. However, the high admission rate (55%) and inconsistent documentation of tumour size (missing in 42% of cases) highlight areas for improvement. Preoperative decision-making (44% of admissions) and clear documentation of tumour characteristics could further optimize day-case rates. The findings support adopting day-case TURBT as the default approach, provided patient and tumour factors are carefully considered, ensuring safety and quality of care.