If you are living with bladder cancer, you may likely have to undergo surgery, which is the preferred first-line treatment for bladder cancer. Here’s what you need to know about bladder cancer surgery and how to prepare.
Bladder cancer is primarily done in adults and done after doctors have performed tests to determine in the cancer has spread.
During bladder cancer surgery, surgeons remove all or part of the bladder to eliminate a cancerous tumor. In some cases, the surrounding tissues and nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.
If your bladder has to be removed, you will need to undergo another surgery so that doctors can provide a method for urine to be transported from the kidneys to outside the body.
There are three different surgical approaches to treating bladder cancer, according to Verywell Health. Your healthcare provider will determine the type of procedure that is best for you based on the size and location of the tumor and the stage of the cancer.
Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT): The initial diagnostic procedure in most people with bladder cancer. TURBT procedure is used as a treatment method for some early-stage small or superficial cancers that have not invaded the muscle of the bladder.
Partial cystectomy: Partial cystectomy is also referred to as “bladder preservation surgery” because it involves removing only part of the bladder. This surgery is done infrequently in a few special situations when the tumor is small or easy to access. It may also be performed if the tumor has not spread, or if the tumor invaded the muscular layer of the bladder, but in only one place. With this option, you won’t be required to undergo reconstructive surgery because you bladder remains, however, you may need follow-up surgery be to fully restore function.
Radical cystectomy: You may be recommended for this option if the tumors have spread to the muscle layer of the bladder (stage 2 and stage 3 cancers). With radical cystectomy the entire bladder, regional lymph nodes, as well as some other tissues, such as
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