Bladder removal for bladder cancer

The operation is called cystectomy. The surgical team may remove part or all of the bladder, depending on the tumour and treatment plan. Nearby lymph nodes and, in some operations, nearby reproductive organs may also be removed.

After complete bladder removal, the surgeon creates a urinary diversion using a segment of bowel. Urine may drain continuously through an opening on the abdomen into an external pouch, collect in an internal reservoir emptied with a catheter, or pass through a reconstructed bladder connected to the urethra.

Not every diversion suits every person. Kidney function, bowel health, previous treatment, manual dexterity, daily routines, and the cancer operation all affect the choice. A stoma nurse can explain pouch care and help mark a practical stoma position before surgery.

Ask which organs the surgeon expects to remove, which diversion is recommended, and why. Discuss effects on sexual function, fertility, body image, continence, work, exercise, and travel. Bring a list of medicines and tell the team about previous abdominal surgery or bowel disease.

During recovery, follow instructions for wound or stoma care, hydration, movement, pain relief, and blood-clot prevention. Learn what normal urine and mucus look like for your diversion, how to empty any pouch or reservoir, and whom to call if equipment leaks or catheter drainage changes.

Seek urgent advice for fever, worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, increasing wound redness or discharge, or markedly reduced urine drainage. Emergency care is needed for sudden breathlessness, chest pain, collapse, or a painful swollen leg because these can signal a blood clot or another serious complication.

Ask: Is partial removal possible, or is complete cystectomy advised? Which urinary diversion fits my health and routine? How might surgery affect intimacy and continence? What practical training will I receive before discharge? Will I need additional treatment after the tissue results are available?