What are the treatment options for bladder cancer?
Treatment for bladder cancer depends on the type of cancer, how advanced it is, the patient’s general health, and his/her preferences. Surgery • Early-stage bladder cancer • TURBT (transurethral resection of bladder tumor) – this procedure is used when the cancer is confined to the inner layers of the bladder. The surgeon passes a wire loop through the patient’s urethra and into the bladder. The loop burns away cancer cells by means of fulguration (electric current). The patient may feel some pain and have blood in his/her urine for a few days. • Segmenta cystectomy (partial cystectomy) – a portion of the bladder that contains cancer cells is surgically removed. This procedure is an option of the cancer is limited to just one part of the bladder that can be surgically removed without seriously affecting bladder function. The patient will receive a general anesthetic and remain in hospital for between seven to ten days. There is a risk of bleeding and infection. There may also be bleedi
