Cystectomy

Overview

46procs_cystoscopy-overview.webp

A cystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove all or part of the bladder. It is primarily used to treat urethral strictures, a narrowing or blockage in the urethra that can cause difficulty in urination, urinary infections, or complete urinary retention. Urethroplasty restores the normal flow of urine and improves the patient's quality of life.

Types of Cystectomy:

  • Partial Cystectomy: Only a portion of the bladder is removed. It is typically performed for non-invasive bladder cancers or localized tumors.
  • Radical Cystectomy: The entire bladder is removed. In men, this may involve removing the prostate and seminal vesicles. In women, the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and part of the vagina may also be removed.
  • Robotic/Minimally Invasive Cystectomy: Robotic assistance is used to perform the surgery with smaller incisions, resulting in shorter recovery time.
Cystectomy

Consult with Experienced Urology

At TRSCH, world-renowned medical pioneers converge to redefine excellence. Our distinguished specialists, having unmatched expertise for compassionate care, are ever-ready to address your health concerns. Consult our Urology today!

How is Cystectomy done?

  • Pre-Surgical Consultation: Includes imaging studies (CT scan, MRI, ultrasound), blood tests, and a complete medical evaluation.
  • Bowel Preparation: Necessary for radical cystectomy if a urinary diversion is planned.
  • Nutritional Support: Patients may need a high-protein diet to prepare for surgery.
  • Stop Smoking: Smoking cessation improves healing and lowers complications.
  • Discuss Medications: Blood thinners and other medications may need to be adjusted.

  • Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used during the procedure.
  • Incision: Either an open or laparoscopic/robotic incision is made.
  • For Radical Cystectomy: The bladder is removed along with surrounding lymph nodes. In men, the prostate and seminal vesicles may also be removed. In women, the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and part of the vagina may be removed.
Urinary Diversion:
  • Since the bladder is removed, a new way to store and eliminate urine is created. Common types of urinary diversion include:
  • Ileal Conduit: A piece of the intestine is used to create a stoma (opening) on the skin to allow urine to drain into an external pouch.
  • Neobladder: A new bladder is constructed from intestinal tissue to allow the patient to urinate normally.
  • Continent Cutaneous Reservoir: An internal pouch is created, and urine is drained via catheter through a stoma.
  • For Partial Cystectomy: Only the tumor and a portion of the bladder wall are removed, preserving bladder function.

  • Infection: There is a risk of wound, urinary tract, or pelvic infection.
  • Bleeding: Blood loss may require transfusions.
  • Anastomotic Leak: Urine may leak from the new urinary connections.
  • Blood Clots: There is a risk of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.
  • Urinary Tract Issues: Patients may experience incontinence or difficulty urinating.
  • Sexual Dysfunction: In men, erectile dysfunction can occur. Women may experience vaginal changes that affect sexual function.
  • Bowel Obstruction: A rare complication due to manipulation of the intestines.
icon
What are the benefits Cystectomy?
  • Cancer Treatment: The primary benefit is the removal of bladder cancer, which can be life-saving.
  • Symptom Relief: Helps relieve symptoms such as bleeding, pain, or obstruction caused by tumors.
  • Improved Quality of Life: For patients with severe bladder disease, cystectomy can significantly improve quality of life.

Infrastructure & Facilities

  • Operating Room: Equipped with advanced surgical equipment for either open or robotic surgery.
  • Postoperative Care Unit:Includes an intensive care unit (ICU) for monitoring post-surgery.
  • Specialized Nursing:Nursing care for urological surgeries and postoperative recovery.
  • Rehabilitation Services:Physical and occupational therapy for recovery and adaptation after surgery.
  • Cancer Care Team:In cases of cancer, a multidisciplinary team (urologists, oncologists, radiologists) is often involved.

FAQs

Recovery typically takes 6-12 weeks. The length of hospital stay is about 5-10 days, depending on the procedure and complications.

It depends on the type of urinary diversion performed. Patients with an ileal conduit will need to wear an external urinary pouch, while patients with a neobladder may not.

Sexual function may be affected, especially in men where the prostate is removed. In women, radical cystectomy may lead to changes in vaginal anatomy. Discussing potential impacts with your surgeon is important.

You may need to adapt to a urinary diversion system (if applicable). Dietary adjustments, increased hydration, and follow-up care are also crucial.

It is an effective treatment for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. However, depending on the cancer stage, additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation may be needed.

Pain management includes medications like opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and sometimes epidural anesthesia.

A cystectomy is a major surgery with significant considerations, but it can provide life-saving benefits, particularly in treating bladder cancer.

Subscribe with us

Copyright 2025 TRSCH - All Rights Reserve

Website Design and Development by Sterco Digitex

Subscribe with us

Copyright 2025 TRSCH - All Rights Reserve

Website Design and Development by Sterco Digitex

Book an Appointment

icon
Find A Doctor

With country's leading experts