Description

Bladder Cancer surgery and treatment Bladder cancer surgery typically involves the removal of cancerous tissue from the bladder. The specific type of surgery depends on the stage and location of the cancer. Here are some common surgical procedures for bladder cancer: 1. **Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT):** This is a minimally invasive procedure where a cystoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder to remove cancerous tissue. It is often used for diagnosing and treating early-stage bladder cancer. 2. **Partial Cystectomy:** In this procedure, only part of the bladder containing the tumor is removed. It may be an option for patients with a small, localized tumor that hasn't invaded the bladder muscle. 3. **Radical Cystectomy:** This is the most extensive surgery for bladder cancer, involving the removal of the entire bladder, nearby lymph nodes, and sometimes surrounding organs such as the prostate or uterus. In men, a urinary diversion procedure is also performed to reroute urine from the kidneys to a new way out of the body, usually through an opening in the abdominal wall (ileal conduit) or by creating a new bladder using a segment of the intestine (neobladder). 4. **Laparoscopic or Robotic-Assisted Surgery:** These minimally invasive techniques use small incisions and specialized instruments to perform surgery. They may be used for partial or radical cystectomy, offering faster recovery times and fewer complications compared to traditional open surgery. The choice of surgery depends on factors such as the stage and grade of the cancer, overall health, and personal preferences. It's important for patients to discuss all available treatment options with their healthcare team to make an informed decision.