A Team Approach to Care
Bladder Cancer
At Comprehensive Urology, our physicians are highly specialized in treating urologic cancers with the most advanced techniques. Using a team approach we strive for excellence. We aim to provide excellent cancer
The bladder is located in the lower abdomen and its function is to store and expel urine. Urine passes from the two kidneys into the bladder via two tubes called the ureters. The bladder has an elastic muscular wall that allows it to contract and expand as urine is stored or emptied. Urine then leaves the bladder through another tube called the urethra.
Cancer that is confined to the lining of the bladder is called superficial bladder cancer. Cancer that invades into the muscular wall of the bladder or beyond is called invasive bladder cancer. Ten percent of transitional cell cancers arise in other parts of the urinary system such as the ureters, the urethra, and the part of the kidneys that collect the urine (renal pelvis).
Bladder cancer symptoms are nonspecific and sometimes can represent other urologic disorders. For this reason, our physicians perform specific screening studies to aid in the diagnosis. They perform a step by step approach to ensure the precise diagnosis is made for each patient.
About 90 percent of bladder cancers form from the cells that line the urinary tract and are called transitional cell carcinomas.
Over 60,000 people are diagnosed with bladder cancer each year in the United States. Over the past two
Risk Factors for Bladder Cancer
There are many associated factors, called carcinogens, which increase the risk of bladder cancer. Smoking and tobacco use carry the greatest risk, contributing to over half of the cases. Smokers carry four times the risk of developing bladder cancer compared to nonsmokers. Smoking cessation does decrease this risk somewhat with time.
Other risk factors and carcinogens include:
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Older Age
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Chronic bladder infections
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Bladder stones
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Patients who have long-term indwelling bladder catheters
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Certain parasitic diseases, such as Schistosomiasis, often found in Egypt
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Previous pelvic radiation therapy for other diseases (i.e. prostate, cervical, rectal or ovarian cancer)
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The chemotherapy cyclophosphamide (used to treat many cancers)
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Certain chemicals in the workplace (i.e. aniline dyes, combustion gases & acrolein)
Bladder Biopsy
If a tumor is found within the bladder during screening, the next step will be a bladder biopsy. This is usually a simple outpatient procedure utilizing endoscopic techniques (no skin incisions) to scrape the tumor from the bladder wall (called transurethral resection). When the tumor is superficial (confined within the lining of the bladder) and not aggressive (low grade) often this is all that is required to remove the cancer. However, when the tumor is more aggressive (into bladder muscle or high grade), more aggressive treatment may be necessary. Potentially a life-saving measure, a bladder cancer biopsy is extremely important in the treatment of cancer.
Grading and Staging of Bladder Cancer
Once bladder cancer is found, a pathologist visualizes the cells under a microscope to determine its aggressiveness (low or high grade). The cancer is also staged based on where it has spread. Tumors that are confined within the bladder lining are considered Stage Ta or T1. Tumors that invade the muscle wall are Stage T2, and those that invade beyond the bladder are termed Stage T3 and T4.
Treatments for Early Stage Bladder Cancer
When a bladder cancer is suspected on visualization of the bladder during cystoscopy, often the definitive diagnosis and bladder cancer treatment can be performed at the same time. When bladder cancer is found early (superficial, low grade, Stage Ta or 1), usually the tumor can be removed at the time of bladder biopsy using instruments through the urinary tract (termed transurethral resection – TUR).
Sometimes when there is more than one localized tumor, or when the tumor is
Treatments for Advanced Stage Bladder Cancer
At Comprehensive Urology, our aim is to provide our patients with excellent cancer control while maintaining their quality of life. Our surgeons, when clinically indicated, can perform cystectomy while preserving erectile function and urinary continence in men (
Surgical Treatments for Advanced Bladder Cancer
Finding the right bladder cancer surgeon is critical when undergoing treatment. When bladder biopsy reveals aggressive (high grade) or invasive (into bladder muscle) bladder cancer, more aggressive treatment is required. The bladder may need to be removed in order to give the best chance for
In men, traditionally the bladder, prostate and surrounding lymph nodes are removed. Most urologic surgeons only perform this type of cystectomy, and the end result is often urinary incontinence and almost always impotence.
At Comprehensive Urology cancer control as well as overall quality of life of our patients is of utmost importance. Our surgeons can help determine before the surgery if you are a candidate for
The allows the patient to keep his urinary control as well as preserve erectile function in a similar manner as
In women, the bladder, uterus and lymph nodes are removed. In keeping with our goal to maintain
Most surgeries are performed using an open surgical incision in the lower abdomen. Certain patients may be candidates for the robotic surgical approach. Using this approach, the cystectomy is performed by using the robotic instruments through small keyhole incisions. A small incision is then used to perform the urinary reconstruction to restore urinary drainage
Robotic Surgery for Bladder Cancer (Da Vinci Cystectomy)
Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumors (TURBT)
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Transurethral resection of the bladder is a procedure in which bladder tumors are surgically removed from the bladder wall. The procedure is most commonly used to treat bladder cancer as the majority of bladder tumors grow on the superficial layer of tissue on the bladder wall, rather than deeper into the tissue. This allows the urologist to safely remove tumors or abnormalities as minimally invasively as possible while preventing the cancerous tissue from spreading.
TURBT is an ideal treatment option for patients with suspected bladder cancer compared to traditional operations that often involve removing the bladder through open surgery. TURBT allows patients to maintain their quality of life while still overcoming a potentially harmful disease. The board-certified urologists at Comprehensive Urology are committed to providing personalized care and minimally invasive treatment designed to preserve each patient’s quality of life.
What is Involved with TURBT?
A transurethral bladder tumor resection is typically performed at a hospital or surgical center under general anesthesia or local anesthesia. The procedure involves inserting a thin flexible tube with a small light and camera known as an endoscope through the urethra into the bladder. First, water will flow up the tube to help expand the bladder and provide the
Recovering from TURBT
Depending on the patient, the procedure can take between 15 minutes to one and a half hours. Fortunately, the operation typically causes minor side effects that clear up within a matter of days to two weeks. The most common side effects include:
- Burning sensation when urinating
- Mild discomfort
- Change in the force of urine stream
- Blood in the urine, causing red, dark burgundy, or brown color
Most patients will also have a catheter or small tube inserted into the bladder to assist with urination while the body recovers. The surgical site as well as the urethra may be slightly swollen for a day or two following the procedure, which may interfere with urination and cause mild discomfort or burning. Once the catheter is removed, patients may experience difficulty controlling urination and blood in the urine during the recovery period, so it is important for patients to get plenty of bed rest and drink plenty of water.
Patients who develop a fever of 101 degrees or higher or experience significant bleeding should seek medical attention to ensure that any blood clots are not causing complications
What are the Risks of Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumors?
TURBT is a minimally invasive procedure, however, it is important to understand that any medical procedure has a degree of risk. It is crucial to undergo TURBT with a trusted and skilled urologist who is not only board-certified, but also has a strong track record of success in performing the procedure. Potential risks include:
- Bladder tumors may grow again
- Urinary tract infections
- Excessive bleeding
- Bladder damage
- Scarring of the urethra that narrows the channel
There is a risk with any medical treatment or operation. The team at Comprehensive Urology are dedicated to helping patients achieve the best possible outcome for their condition and strive to make patients as comfortable and confident as possible before any procedure. We take the time to ensure that our patients are well-informed about any treatment options and what to expect in order to provide the best comprehensive care.
Robotic Cystectomy
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The skilled urologists at Comprehensive Urology are proud to offer the latest and most advanced surgical methods available to treat bladder cancer. Depending on the severity of the disease, it may be necessary to remove all or part of the bladder, following by construction of a continence reservoir. With a robot-assisted cystectomy, patients will receive the best possible treatment with the best chance at a quick and seamless recovery.
To learn more about a robotic cystectomy or for a second opinion, contact the exceptional team at Comprehensive Urology in Los Angeles as soon as possible.
What are the Benefits of a Robotic Cystectomy?
Using a robotic-assisted device, such as the da Vinci Surgical System, our urologists are able to forego the invasive traditional surgeries of the past in favor of the minimally invasive accuracy provided by the da Vinci. Other notable benefits include:
- Reduced risk of blood loss
- Shorter hospital stay and recovery time
- Less scar tissue
- Minimized chance of infection
- Limited risk of complications
- Reduced post-operative pain
- 3-D visualization for surgical accuracy
What to Expect after Partial or Total Bladder Removal
When all or part of the bladder is removed, patients will also undergo one of three different types of urinary reconstruction in which the patient can continue to allow urine to exit the body. These types of urinary reconstruction include:
Orthotopic Neobladder – A new bladder is created and connected to the urethra, allowing the patient to void urine as usual from the urethra.
Indiana Pouch – A type of continent urinary diversion in which a reservoir collects urine outside the body via a small stoma (opening). The patient does not require a urine bag or
Ileal-Conduit – A type of urine diversion via a small section of the intestine, which allows the urine to empty through a small stoma (opening). Patients use an external urine collection bag or device.
The type of urinary reconstruction will depend on the patient’s health,
Urinary Diversions
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When bladder biopsy reveals aggressive (high grade) or invasive (into bladder muscle) bladder cancer, more aggressive treatment is required. This often includes bladder cancer surgery. The standard treatment involves surgical removal of the bladder (termed cystectomy) and urinary diversion to restore urine drainage.
When the bladder is removed for aggressive and invasive bladder cancer, a urinary diversion needs to be performed in order to restore normal urinary drainage. There are different types of diversion that may be performed depending on each patient. These include
Ileal Conduit:
Ileal conduit: our surgeons use a small segment of the small intestine (termed the “ileum”) and attach the ureters to one end of the segment. The other end is connected to the lower abdominal wall to allow urine to exit into a small drainage bag (termed a urostomy) through a nickel size opening. It is considered the least complicated of urinary diversions
Neobladder
Neobladder: our surgeons use a longer segment of the intestine to make a new bladder (“neo-bladder”). The intestine is reconstructed into a spherical shape resembling the normal bladder. This is then connected to the urethra to allow patients to urinate more naturally and not need any external devices such as a “bag”. When used with
Continent Reservoir
Continent reservoir: For eligible patients who cannot have the neo-bladder connected to their urethra (i.e. invasive cancer into the pelvis, previous extensive pelvic irradiation), but prefer not to have an external “bag”, our surgeons use the intestine to create a new bladder (neo-bladder) and create a continence mechanism for it. It is the connected to the abdominal wall. Patients then drain the pouch every several hours with a catheter, so no permanent external drainage bag is used.
Other Treatments for
Advanced Bladder Cancer
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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be utilized in multiple ways for the treatment of bladder cancer. When a patient has
Radiation Therapy
Although surgery and chemotherapy are considered the main treatment for advanced bladder cancer, simultaneous chemotherapy and radiation can be used as an alternative to
Neobladder
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When a patient has been diagnosed with aggressive or invasive bladder cancer, it is often necessary to take an aggressive approach to
Overcoming a serious illness such as cancer can be intimidating and overwhelming, but it is important to work with a skilled medical team who will not only fight to protect your health and quality of
What is Neobladder?
A Neobladder is a portion of the patient’s small intestine that is reconstructed and joined to the ureters, which bring urine from the kidneys to the new bladder, and the urethra, which allows the urine to exit the body. The section of the small intestine is formed into a small pouch that mimics the reservoir function of the bladder and helps prevent urine from backing up and causing infection in the kidneys. However, patients will have to adjust to the temporary and permanent changes that may happen to their body as a result of the surgery, such as an initial lack of muscle control over the Neobladder compared to the natural bladder. The urologists and nursing staff at Comprehensive Urology and Cedars Sinai Medical Center will work closely with the patient to ensure that the adjustment is as comfortable and seamless as possible.
Rehabilitation and Side Effects
Since a cystectomy and Neobladder procedure often involves removing surrounding pelvic organs, such as the prostate in men, and the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries in women, the recovery process will vary from patient to patient. Patients may need to spend up to two or three weeks in the hospital to avoid any possible complications as well as to provide assistance with the process of using the Neobladder.
It may take several months for patients to regain their strength and return to normal activities, such as driving, going back to work, and exercising. During the first few weeks at home, patients will have a catheter to assist with urination as the body continues to heal. Once the catheter is removed, patients will be instructed on how to use the new bladder. Initially, the Neobladder will have to be emptied every one to three hours, gradually building up over time as the bladder capacity increases.
In some cases, patients may have to use a catheter each time they need to empty their bladder in order to ensure that there is no residual urine remaining. If the bladder is not completely drained, it could result in urinary tract infections or kidney or bladder stones.
The small intestine used to create the Neobladder will naturally secrete a thick mucus that will be present in the urine. It will be necessary for the patient to regularly flush the bladder to cleanse the mucus from the bladder and prevent blockages
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Neobladder?
As with any surgical procedure, there are pros and cons to consider, especially if an organ is completely removed. The Neobladder is preferable for many patients because it most closely mimics the normal urination process and protects the kidneys from infection or kidney stones. However, recovering from the Neobladder operation can be lengthy and result in urinary leakage and regular self-catheterization.
It is important to discuss your concerns and whether you are a viable candidate for a Neobladder with the skilled urologists at Comprehensive Urology.
Ileal Conduit
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An ileal conduit, also known as a urostomy, is a type of urinary diversion technique in which a urologist creates a system of urinary drainage with a section of the patient’s small intestine. This procedure is one of several treatment options for patients that must undergo a cystectomy or total removal of the bladder due to muscle-invasive bladder cancer, recurrent bladder tumors that do not respond to transurethral resection or chemotherapy, chronic inflammation of the bladder, or birth defects.
This procedure is permanent and life-saving, particularly for patients facing advanced stages of cancer. Choosing to under an ileal conduit is not a decision to take lightly and the expert urologists at Comprehensive Urology strive to help patients achieve the best possible outcome for their condition. If a patient is a valid candidate for
What is an Ileal Conduit?
An ileal conduit redirects urine from the kidneys to an external bag located on the outside of the abdomen. The urinary diversion is created using a section of the small intestine called the ileum that is surgically sewn to the ureters from the kidneys to a small opening created through the abdominal wall called a stoma. Following the surgery, a small plastic bag will be attached around the stoma to collect urine from the ureters.
The patient will be responsible for cleansing and protecting the stoma, which can be sensitive to bacteria, as well as the tissue surrounding the stoma that will be exposed to caustic urine. It is important for patients to monitor urinary flow and regularly empty the urinary bag.
What to Expect During Recovery
Following a cystectomy and ileal conduit operation, patients will need to spend about a week in the hospital to ensure professional care and prevention of complications. Full recovery can take up to six to eight weeks, during which patients will receive regular checkups to monitor how well the patient is healing and adapting to the stoma. In many cases, additional pelvic organs are removed during a cystectomy to ensure that the cancer cells do not spread. For men, this often means removal of the prostate and lymph nodes, and for
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of an Ileal Conduit?
Ileal conduit urinary diversion is an ideal option for those undergoing a cystectomy because it is a safe and effective procedure that can be completed in less time than other, more complex operations. The stoma and urinary bag also allow patients to avoid the occasional self-catheterization that is often required with other procedures, such as a Neobladder.
The few disadvantages of an ileal conduit include having to care for an external bag that collects urine and may leak or cause odors. Many patients face the psychological impact of a sudden change in body image and must learn to adapt to the new responsibilities of caring for a stoma and urinary bag. One of the main risks associated with an ileal conduit is the potential for urine collecting in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney infections, stones, and organ damage.
There are pros and cons to any type of urinary diversion technique and it is important to discuss your options and concerns with a highly trained and experienced urologist, such as Dr. Kia Michel. Undergoing an organ removal and creation of a stoma is a major decision, but the dedicated team at Comprehensive Urology take the time to help patients make an informed decision that they can be comfortable and confident with.
URINARY INCONTINENCE
FAQ
What is a cystoscopy?
Cystoscopy is an exam used to evaluate for abnormalities within the bladder itself. It is often used as part of the evaluation for patients who have blood in the urine (hematuria). It is a simple 5 to 10 minute procedure performed with anesthetic in which a camera attached to a thin flexible tube is placed into the bladder through the urethra to directly visualize the lining of bladder.
What are the side effects of cystoscopy?
The vast majority of patients tolerate the procedure very well. Side effects can include minor bleeding or burning with urination (which is self limited), temporary irritative urinary symptoms, urinary infection (minimal risk due to the administration of a single antibiotic at the time of the procedure), and the small risk of scarring. The procedure entails no increased risk compared to the placement of a simple urinary catheter for bladder drainage. The side effects are self limited and tend to resolve within 24 hours of the procedure.
Are there any limitations after the procedure?
There are no activity or dietary restrictions after a cystoscopy is performed. If an intravenous anesthetic is used for your procedure, then certain restrictions may be associated with the anesthetic for that day (i.e. driving restrictions).
How is a bladder biopsy performed?
This is usually a simple outpatient procedure utilizing endoscopic techniques (no skin incisions) to scrape the tumor from the bladder wall (called transurethral resection). When the tumor is superficial (confined within the lining of the bladder) and not aggressive (low grade) often this is all that is required to remove the cancer.
Will I need a bladder catheter after the procedure?
Depending on the depth of the tumor and resection, some patients may require a catheter for a short period of time in order to enhance healing by preventing the bladder from distending. In other instances, no catheter may be required.
What are common side effects?
Common side effects include blood in the urine (self limited), a small risk of infection and scarring, as well as transient burning, urgency and frequency with urination.
Are there any limitations after the procedure?
For the majority of patients, our physicians may advise certain limitations on strenuous activity and lifting for 1 to 2 weeks in order to prevent persistent blood in the urine. There are usually minimal restrictions on driving and normal activities of daily living.