Endoscopic snare resection of bladder tumors: Evaluation of an alternative technique for bladder tumor resection

Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is the standard of care for initial bladder tumor management. In response to its shortcomings, we propose an alternative technique for tumor resection and retrieval: The endoscopic snare resection of bladder tumor (ESRBT). Eleven tumors managed by ESRBT were reviewed retrospectively. Via cystoscopy, tumors were resected en bloc with an electrosurgical polypectomy snare and retrieved transurethrally. Safety and efficacy were assessed by clinical and pathologic outcomes. ESRBT was highly effective for appropriate tumors. Tumor size and location varied: Two small, six medium, three large; six lateral wall, two dome, two trigone, one posterior wall. Half of initial urothelial carcinoma specimens contained muscle. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications (mean follow-up: 17 mos; range 10-25 mos). ESRBT is a feasible technique for the resection of pedunculated bladder tumors. It offers evident and theoretical advantages over TURBT and may augment bladder tumor management. Further study is needed.