About Bladder Cancer Surgery
Key Highlights
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Performed by a fellowship-trained Uro-Oncologist with specialized expertise in urologic cancers.Tailored approach based on cancer stage, from organ-preserving to radical removal.Minimally invasive options (like TURBT or robotic cystectomy) can reduce pain and speed recovery.Aims for complete tumor removal with clear surgical margins to prevent recurrence.Often the definitive treatment for non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.Can be combined with intravesical therapies immediately following surgery to enhance effectiveness./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (Ta, T1, or carcinoma in situ).
- Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (T2 or greater) requiring radical treatment.
- High-grade or recurrent tumors that have not responded adequately to other treatments.
- To obtain a tissue sample (biopsy) for accurate diagnosis and staging.
- To relieve symptoms caused by the tumor, such as bleeding or urinary obstruction.
- As part of a multimodal treatment plan for advanced bladder cancer.
How to prepare
- Complete pre-operative medical evaluation, including blood tests, ECG, and imaging.
- Discussion of anesthesia options (general or spinal) with the anesthesiologist.
- Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the doctor.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before the surgery as per hospital protocol.
- Bowel preparation may be required for major procedures like cystectomy.
- Arranging for post-operative support and transportation for discharge.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding during or after the procedure.
- Infection of the urinary tract or surgical site.
- Perforation of the bladder wall (more common with TURBT).
- Reaction to anesthesia.
- Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis).
- For cystectomy: Erectile dysfunction (men), changes in sexual function (women), and urinary diversion-related complications.
- Stricture (narrowing) of the urethra.
- Cancer recurrence, necessitating further treatment.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay varies from outpatient (TURBT) to 5-10 days (radical cystectomy).
- A urinary catheter is typically placed for a period to allow bladder healing.
- Pain is managed effectively with prescribed medications.
- Patients are encouraged to walk soon after surgery to prevent clots.
- Follow a specific diet and fluid intake plan as recommended.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial for catheter removal, wound checks, and discussing pathology results.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for the advised period (usually 4-6 weeks).
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Typical hospital stay: Outpatient to 10 days
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Expected recovery time: 2 weeks to 3 months
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering bladder cancer surgery in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with uro oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform bladder cancer surgery. MediFyr helps you compare uro oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for bladder cancer surgery compare across other countries where we have data.
Dr. Vishal Jalan provided exceptional care...
Dr. Vishal Jalan provided exceptional care for my uro-oncology condition. The treatment was personalized and effective.