UROLOGY · CONDITIONS
Bladder Cancer
Malignant tumour of the bladder lining , the most common urological cancer, presenting with painless blood in urine and requiring expert endoscopic and surgical management.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Bladder Cancer?
Bladder cancer arises from the urothelial lining of the bladder. Painless haematuria is the hallmark symptom. It is classified as non-muscle-invasive (NMIBC) , treated endoscopically , or muscle-invasive (MIBC) , requiring radical cystectomy. Recurrence surveillance is mandatory throughout life. Dr. Vipin provides the complete pathway of bladder cancer care: from diagnostic cystoscopy and TURBT through intravesical BCG therapy, surveillance, and radical cystectomy with urinary reconstruction when required.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Cigarette smoking , the single largest risk factor
- Occupational chemical exposure (arylamines, dyes)
- Chronic bladder irritation or infection
- Cyclophosphamide chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy to the pelvis
- Family history of bladder cancer
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Any single episode of painless haematuria in an adult must be investigated urgently.
Transurethral resection simultaneously diagnoses and treats non-muscle-invasive tumours
Intravesical BCG significantly reduces recurrence and progression in high-risk NMIBC.
Radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive disease , open, laparoscopic, or robotic approach.
Lifelong cystoscopic surveillance is mandatory , bladder cancer recurs in up to 70% of cases.
Stopping smoking reduces recurrence risk and improves survival after treatment.
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
TURBT (Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour)
Endoscopic resection of the bladder tumour using a resectoscope , simultaneously diagnoses, stages, and treats non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer in a single procedure.
- 1
Cystoscopy & TURBT
Flexible cystoscopy identifies the tumour. TURBT resects it completely under anaesthesia , providing both staging histology and initial treatment.
- 2
Staging & Risk
Pathology classifies stage (Ta, T1, T2) and grade. Risk stratification determines need for intravesical therapy.
- 3
Intravesical Therapy
High-risk NMIBC receives BCG induction (6 instillations) and maintenance therapy. Single MMC given post-TURBT for low-risk disease.
- 4
Surveillance
Cystoscopy at 3 months, then every 3–6 months for 2 years. Annual cystoscopy thereafter for life to detect early recurrence.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
TURBT (Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour)
Endoscopic resection of the bladder tumour , the cornerstone of diagnosis and treatment of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
Re-TURBT
Repeat resection 4–6 weeks later for high-grade T1 tumours , ensures complete resection and accurate staging.
Radical Cystectomy , Open / Laparoscopic / Robotic
Complete bladder removal with pelvic lymphadenectomy for muscle-invasive or BCG-unresponsive bladder cancer.
Ileal Conduit (Bricker's)
Permanent urostomy using an ileal segment , the most reliable and widely used urinary diversion after cystectomy.
Orthotopic Neobladder (Studer)
Continent ileal reservoir anastomosed to the urethra , allows natural voiding without an external stoma.
Partial Cystectomy
Localised bladder wall excision for selected solitary muscle-invasive tumours in accessible locations with adequate margins.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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