Principles of Treatment

Treatment of bladder tumors depends on their characteristics. It is therefore always necessary, at a minimum, to remove the tumor surgically, so that it can be examined under a microscope. Depending on its stage (infiltration or not of the muscle layer), its grade (more or less “aggressive” character of the tumor cells), the number of tumors, the best therapeutic strategy is implemented, also taking into account the characteristics and choices of the affected person. In France, the bladder cancer treatment is decided following a multidisciplinary consultation meeting during which several specialists (urologist, oncologist, radiotherapist, psychologist, etc.) speak. The decision leads to the establishment of a personalized care program (PPS). Any cancer is considered a long-term condition which allows reimbursements at higher rates by Medicare. In the event of occupational exposure to a toxicant, the declaration of occupational disease also opens up specific rights.

Given the often high risk of recurrence or of worsening, a medical monitoring regular is needed after treatment. Control examinations are therefore commonly performed.

Treatment of superficial bladder tumors (TVNIM)

• Transurethral resection bladder (RTUV). The goal of this surgery is to remove the tumor passing through the urethra, while retaining the bladder. It involves inserting a cystoscope into the urethra, up to the bladder, to remove cancer cells using a small metal loop.

• Instillation in the bladder. The goal of this treatment is to prevent recurrence of bladder cancer. This involves introducing substances into the bladder aimed at destroying cancer cells or stimulating local immunity. Using a probe, a substance is introduced into the bladder: immunotherapy (vaccine tuberculosis bacillus or BCG) or chemical molecule (chemotherapy). BCG therapy can be repeated and sometimes even be given as maintenance treatment.

• Removal of the entire bladder (cystectomie) in case of failure of previous treatments.

Treatment of TVNIM

• Cystectomie total. This involves removing the entire bladder. The surgeon also the ganglia et neighboring organs (prostate, seminal vesicles in men; uterus and ovaries in women).

• Removal of the bladder is followed by reconstructive surgery, consisting in re-establishing a new circuit to evacuate urine. While there are various ways to do this, the two most common methods are to collect urine in a pocket outside the body (bypassing urine to the skin) or to replenish an artificial internal bladder (neobladder). using a segment of the intestine.

Other processing

-Depending on the case, other treatments may be offered: chemotherapy, radiotherapy, partial surgery, etc.

All of them can cause more or less serious side effects.

Complementary approaches

Reviews. Consult our Cancer file to learn about all the complementary approaches, which have been studied in people with this disease, such as acupuncture, visualization, massage therapy and yoga. These approaches may be suitable when used as an adjunct to, and not as a substitute for, medical treatment.