Bladder cancer - recovery from TURBT

Hello all.  I found out I had a bladder tumour after speaking to my GP about HRT (I'm 51) during the summer.... Mentioned I had pelvic pain and was referred for a scan of my ovaries and uterus.  During this process the technician spotted a vascular growth in my bladder of 3 x 2cm.  Cytoscopy wasn't possible due to urethral stricture so I had TURBT, intravesical chemo and urethral stretching under general anesthesia on Friday 15th.  Had hoped this would be the end of it but been told I have to wait for lab findings to see if further treatment is needed. 

Got home on Saturday and felt great but last night I was hit by a wave of exhaustion.. now feel a bit sore 'down below' - manageable with painkillers.  Assuming this is just the hospital meds wearing off!  Had thought I'd be back to work in a couple of days but thinking a week off may be needed...  Grateful to hear of anyone elses experience?  Like most folk, this has all been a bit unexpected...!!  Thanks! 

  • Hi fionay_68. Welcome to the forum.

    I had a TURBT in June this year, although my surgery was I think somewhat less complicated than yours.

    I suspect most of your pain is due to the urethral stretching.  This was principle cause for my pains after each cystoscopy and the surgery itself, and my urethra is normal!  Since yours was abnormally narrow, I think you must expect a longer recovery time.  For me, the worst was over in 24 hours, but I'm not surprised you're still in pain now.  

    I found that OTC soluble paracetamol and codeine was sufficient to control the pain so you might like to try that. The hospital also gave me a pack of stronger codeine tablets, although I didn't use them.  If the OTC painkillers don't work, phone the GP surgery and tell them you're in a lot of pain and you need to see or speak to a doctor soon.  

    Waiting for results after cancer surgery can be nerve-wracking.  I got my results four week later, which fortunately was good news, and then a couple of weeks ago I had my first follow up cystoscopy - also good news.  I hope it all works out as well for you.