A cystectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove all or part of the bladder, most often to treat bladder cancer. Still, it may also be done for severe bladder trauma or interstitial cystitis. There are two types: partial cystectomy, where only the diseased portion of the bladder is removed, and radical cystectomy, which involves removing the entire bladder. In cases of bladder cancer, a radical cystectomy may also include the removal of nearby lymph nodes and surrounding organs that may harbour cancer cells, such as the prostate in men and the uterus and part of the vaginal wall in women. After a radical cystectomy, surgeons typically create a new way for urine to exit the body, which may involve making a stoma or constructing a new bladder from a segment of the patient’s intestine. Cystectomy is a major surgery with risks like infection, blood clots, and potential impact on urinary and sexual function. Recovery can be extensive, requiring a hospital stay and careful monitoring. This procedure can significantly improve the quality of life and survival rates for patients with invasive bladder cancer.
The symptoms that might lead someone to require a cystectomy usually relate to the underlying condition, such as bladder cancer. Common symptoms include:
Blood in urine (hematuria)
Frequent urination or urge to urinate
Painful urination
Lower abdominal pain
Fatigue or weakness
Weight loss
A cystectomy is most often performed to treat bladder cancer that has spread or is aggressive. Other conditions requiring this procedure may include:
Advanced bladder cancer
Bladder trauma or injury
Chronic bladder conditions like interstitial cystitis
Congenital bladder abnormalities
Radiation-induced bladder damage
If you experience any of the following, you should seek medical attention:
Persistent blood in urine
Severe or chronic urinary pain
Difficulty urinating or changes in urination patterns
Unexplained fatigue and weight loss
Pelvic pain lasting more than a few weeks
Early detection of bladder cancer and other bladder diseases increases the chance of successful treatment.
Several factors may increase the risk of needing a cystectomy, particularly for bladder cancer, which is the primary reason for this surgery:
Smoking is the most significant risk factor for bladder cancer.
Chemical Exposure: Workplace chemicals, including those used in the dye, rubber, and leather industries.
Chronic Bladder Infections: Long-term inflammation may increase the risk of cancer.
Radiation and Chemotherapy: Prior treatments for other cancers can increase bladder cancer risk.
Age and Gender: Men, especially those over 50, are at greater risk.
Before recommending a cystectomy, doctors will typically perform several diagnostic tests to assess the condition:
Urine tests: To detect blood, cancer cells, or signs of infection.
Cystoscopy: A procedure using a scope to examine the bladder.
Imaging tests, such as MRI, CT scans, or ultrasounds, are used to view the bladder and surrounding organs.
Biopsy: To confirm the presence of cancer or other abnormal cells.
Do’s:
Follow all post-surgery instructions carefully, including wound care and medication.
Stay hydrated to promote healing and maintain kidney health.
Report any unusual symptoms, such as pain, fever, or signs of infection.
Use a catheter as instructed and keep it clean to avoid infection.
Don’ts:
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several weeks post-surgery.
Do not skip follow-up appointments, as regular monitoring is essential.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol to support bladder health and recovery.
Disclaimer:
Our medical content authors have diligently gathered and synthesized information on this topic to offer valuable insights to our readers. Drawing from a range of reputable medical journals and health resources, this content aims to enhance understanding of the subject. It's essential to remember that while this information is informative, it should not replace personalized consultation or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. For further details, please refer to our Editorial Policy.
For this topic, our authors used some of the following resources:
Mayo Clinic | Bladder removal surgery (cystectomy)
Cleveland Clinic | Cystectomy (Bladder Removal): Procedure & Results
Cancer Research UK | Surgery to remove the bladder (cystectomy)
National Institutes of Health (.gov) | Radical cystectomy: a review of techniques, developments
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Saba holds a Master’s degree in Pharmacy from Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi and possesses a deep understanding of medical subjects. She is an experienced teacher and is passionate about health education. She has a remarkable talent for transforming complex medical concepts into engaging, accurate, and impactful content to inspire healthier living. With a deep scientific understanding and thorough research, Saba consistently supports her writings with the latest publications, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
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Oruge is committed to promoting health awareness through clear, research-based communication. With a background in microbiology and public health, she combines scientific accuracy with an engaging writing style to simplify complex medical topics. At VivaVel Health, she contributes insightful reviews, articles, and blogs that empower readers to make informed decisions for healthier living.
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