What is radical cystectomy?
Radical cystectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the bladder, and often other nearby organs, in order to treat bladder cancer that has spread to nearby tissues. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the entire bladder, as well as nearby lymph nodes, the prostate gland (in men), the uterus, ovaries, and part of the vagina (in women), and part of the urethra. After the bladder is removed, the surgeon creates a new way for the urine to leave the body, such as a urinary diversion procedure, which can be an internal pouch or an external ostomy bag.
Radical cystectomy is a major surgery and requires a hospital stay of several days to several weeks, depending on the individual's overall health and the extent of the surgery. The procedure carries significant risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, blood clots, damage to nearby organs or structures, and complications related to anesthesia. However, it is often a necessary treatment option for bladder cancer that has spread beyond the bladder and has not responded to other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy. After the surgery, individuals may need to undergo additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, to help prevent the cancer from recurring.
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