Does bladder removal surgery treat bladder cancer?

A cystectomy removes part or all of the bladder. Partial cystectomy removes a selected bladder area in carefully chosen situations. Radical cystectomy removes the bladder and may also involve nearby organs or lymph nodes, depending on the person's anatomy and the surgical plan.

After the bladder is removed, urine needs a new route out of the body. The surgeon may create a urinary diversion, such as a conduit or an internal reservoir. Surgery may be combined with medicine or radiotherapy before or after the operation when this is appropriate.

The urology and oncology team will review pathology, scans, the bladder tumour's depth, and whether disease has spread. Ask why cystectomy is recommended, whether a bladder-preserving approach is suitable, and what urinary diversion would fit your health and daily life.

Before surgery, discuss recovery, wound care, activity, eating and drinking, stoma support if relevant, and how urine will be managed. A specialist nurse can teach practical care and help you plan support at home.

After cystectomy, contact the surgical team for fever, worsening pain, increasing redness or drainage, persistent vomiting, very low urine output, or a sudden change in the urinary diversion. Seek urgent help for severe breathlessness, chest pain, fainting, or heavy bleeding.

Is partial or radical cystectomy being considered, and why? Will lymph nodes or nearby organs be removed? What urinary diversion is planned? Could other treatment be needed? How will surgery affect continence, sexual function, work, and recovery?