Urological Oncology
Bladder Cancer Surgery
From endoscopic removal (TURBT) for early disease to removal of the bladder (cystectomy) for muscle-invasive cancer.
01What is it?
Early bladder cancer is treated with TURBT plus intravesical therapy. Muscle-invasive cancer may require radical cystectomy — removal of the bladder — with creation of a new way to store and pass urine (urinary diversion).
02When is treatment considered?
Guided by the stage and grade from TURBT pathology and imaging.
03Available treatment options
For muscle-invasive disease, options include cystectomy with chemotherapy, or bladder-preserving approaches combining TURBT, chemotherapy and radiation in suitable patients.
04What does the procedure involve?
Cystectomy is major surgery: the bladder is removed and urine is diverted either into a stoma bag (ileal conduit) or, in suitable patients, a new internal reservoir (neobladder).
05Expected recovery
Hospital stay of about a week or more, with recovery over 6–12 weeks. Stoma or neobladder training is provided by specialist nurses.
06Common risks
Bleeding, infection, blood clots, effects on sexual function, and diversion-related issues such as infections or metabolic changes — all discussed in detail beforehand.
07When to seek medical attention
Fever, wound problems, or a stoma that stops working after discharge need urgent contact with the team.
08Frequently asked questions
This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for an individual medical consultation. Diagnosis and treatment should be based on assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.