Best Doctor List Near You for Total Cystectomy in Brookline

Total cystectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the complete removal of the urinary bladder. This procedure is most commonly performed to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer or high-risk non-invasive bladder cancer that has not responded to other treatments. In some cases, total cystectomy may also be necessary for severe, debilitating bladder conditions such as interstitial cystitis or refractory bladder pain syndrome, or for bladder damage caused by radiation or chronic infection. The surgery typically includes the removal of surrounding lymph nodes, parts of the urethra, and, in men, the prostate and seminal vesicles, or, in women, the uterus, ovaries, and part of the vagina. The cause for undergoing a total cystectomy is primarily the presence of aggressive or recurrent bladder cancer that poses a significant threat to the patient's health if not entirely removed. The procedure carries several potential complications, including urinary incontinence, infection, blood clots, and bowel obstruction. Postoperative complications may also include sexual dysfunction, particularly in men, due to the removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles, and in women, due to the removal of reproductive organs. Additionally, patients will require a new way to store and eliminate urine, which could involve creating a urinary diversion such as an ileal conduit, a neobladder, or a continent reservoir. These changes can significantly impact quality of life and require adaptation to new bodily functions. Despite the risks, total cystectomy is often the most effective treatment for high-risk bladder cancer, offering the best chance for long-term survival.