Bladder Cancer Surgery
Bladder cancer is a type of cancer in which cancer cells form in the tissue of the bladder (urinary bladder). This cancer usually starts in the cells on the inner surface of the bladder and can spread to the bladder wall over time. Better outcomes can be achieved when bladder cancer is diagnosed and treated early.
Bladder cancer can be associated with a variety of factors, including smoking, advanced age, male gender, chemical exposure (eg, some industrial chemicals), chronic bladder infections, and familial predisposition. Bladder cancer can often present with the following symptoms:
- Bleeding or blood clots in the urine
- Frequent urination
- Burning or pain when urinating
- difficulty urinating
- Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
Bladder cancer is divided into several stages, which determine the extent of cancer’s spread and treatment options. In the early stages, there are cancer cells that are limited only to the bladder, while in the later stages, the cancer may spread from the bladder wall to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.
Diagnosis of bladder cancer is made by methods such as medical history, physical examination, urine tests, imaging methods (eg ultrasound, computed tomography) and intravesical imaging (eg cystoscopy). For a definitive diagnosis, a tissue sample (biopsy) from the bladder may need to be done.
Treatment options vary depending on the stage, size and extent of the cancer. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. The treatment approach is determined according to the patient’s condition and the recommendations of the medical team.
If bladder cancer is diagnosed or symptoms are suspected, it is important to consult a urologist or oncologist. Early detection and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the survival rates of patients with bladder cancer.
Bladder Cancer Surgery
- Bladder cancer surgery is a procedure performed to surgically remove cancerous areas of the bladder. The type of surgery may vary depending on the stage, size and extent of the cancer. Here are some common bladder cancer surgeries:
- Transurethral resection (TUR): This is a type of surgery that is often used in the early stages of bladder cancer and for superficial lesions. Using a cystoscope (a thin tube), the bladder is entered and cancerous lesions are removed using a high-frequency electric current or laser.
- Partial cystectomy: This surgery involves removing only the cancerous areas of the bladder. It can be used in the case of a small tumor or a limited presence of cancer. The affected bladder portion is removed and the remaining healthy bladder tissue is preserved.
- Radical cystectomy: This is a more extensive surgery used in advanced bladder cancer. In surgery, the bladder, nearby lymph nodes, prostate (in men), uterus and vagina (in women) are removed. In this situation, an alternative method of storing urine may be required instead of the bladder, for example, a new urine reservoir can be created by connecting the ureters with the intestinal segment (ileal conduit) or the bladder can be reconstructed with the intestinal segment (neobladder).
- Robotic or laparoscopic cystectomy: These surgeries involve the surgeon performing a radical cystectomy using robotic surgical systems or laparoscopic methods. These methods can be less invasive compared to the classical open surgery method, as they are performed with smaller incisions.
Bladder cancer surgery is usually performed by a specialist urology surgeon. The recovery period after surgery varies depending on the general health status of the patient, the type and stage of the surgery. During the recovery period, patients usually stay in the hospital for a few days and receive guidance on urinary control, urination habits, and lifestyle changes.
In the post-operative period, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions. It is important to pay attention to issues such as the care of sutures, pain management, infection prevention measures and regular check-ups.
The most appropriate surgical method and treatment plan for each patient is determined by a healthcare professional who evaluates the patient’s condition. That’s why it’s important to see a urologist when diagnosed with bladder cancer or to learn more about treatment options.
Assoc.Prof. Tuncay TAŞ
Urology Specialist
Istanbul/ TURKEY