What is a cystectomy?
A cystectomy is surgery to remove all or part of the bladder. The bladder is the organ that holds urine until you go to the bathroom. Most of the time, this surgery is done to treat bladder cancer. Sometimes, it’s needed for other bladder problems that can’t be fixed with medicine or smaller procedures.
Causes of cystectomy
The most common reason for a cystectomy is bladder cancer. Other possible reasons include:
- Damage to the bladder from radiation or injury
- Long-term inflammation or infection
- Birth defects that affect bladder function
- Severe bladder control problems (in rare cases)
Risk factors for needing a cystectomy
You may be more likely to need this surgery if you:
- Have bladder cancer that has grown or come back
- Have long-term bladder infections or inflammation
- Had radiation treatment to the pelvic area
- Were born with bladder problems or nerve issues that affect urination
Symptoms that may lead to cystectomy
The symptoms usually come from bladder cancer or other serious bladder conditions, such as:
- Blood in your urine
- Frequent or painful urination
- Trouble emptying your bladder
- Urine leakage or incontinence
- Pelvic pain or pressure
Diagnosing the need for cystectomy
Doctors may recommend this surgery after doing:
- Urine tests to check for infection or cancer cells
- A cystoscopy (a small camera used to look inside the bladder)
- Imaging tests like CT or MRI scans
- A biopsy to confirm bladder cancer or other problems
Treatment of cystectomy
There are two main types of cystectomy:
- Partial cystectomy – only part of the bladder is removed
- Radical cystectomy – the entire bladder is removed (often for cancer)
Other details:
- After the bladder is removed, the body needs a new way to store and pass urine
- Doctors may create a new pouch (called a neobladder) or use a stoma with a urostomy bag
- Recovery takes several weeks and may include physical therapy, diet changes, and support from specialists