We’re delighted to see the charity-funded TULA diode laser machine already helping patients at Lister Hospital

TULA (Transurethral Laser Ablation) is a procedure used to treat small bladder tumours. A thin camera is inserted into the bladder via the urethra and the laser is then used to destroy the bladder tumours. It is a simple, quick and relatively painless procedure requiring no general anaesthetic, allowing the patient to go home the same day.

Christine Gan, consultant urological surgeon said: “TULA is a much less invasive procedure and allows us to treat patients with small bladder tumours who cannot undergo surgery that requires general anaesthetic. Of the 7 patients we have treated so far, 3 were not suitable for general anaesthetic so this equipment will help us treat more people. With no general anaesthesia, there is no need for an overnight stay. Patients can home straight afterwards.”

We met Ian, who was enjoying a cup of tea and a biscuit, having just had the TULA procedure. We asked him how he felt. “Smashing. No problems at all. It was painless,” he said.