Bladder chemo wash or radical cystectomy

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My husband was diagnosed with non muscle invasive bladder cancer over a year ago.

Failed BCG treatment and multiple TURBT later, he had just completed weekly gemcitabine bladder wash therapy. Will find out in August if it's worked. If not, it's cystectomy time.

If no tumours return I'm worried continuing bladder wash therapy will risk cancer spreading through bladder wall. He has high grade cancer so will always return they said. 

Any advice appreciated 

  • Hi nat

    I've never had any bcg or bladder washes. Mine was invasive from the start so RC  was only option. I suppose for a greater peace of mind a RC is the route to go. But again I think the surgeons will try to maintain a body's organ until it can't be maintained any longer. August will give you a clearer picture 

    Best wishes 

    Mark

  • I must admit I chose surgery straight off as best chance of cure (among other reasons). The more recurrences, the higher the risk of muscle invasion & even possibly becoming incurable. The problem is knowing when to take the step of surgery, as it's not one to be taken lightly. Only he & you can make the decision, with the help of his consultant. 

    Happy to answer any questions about the surgery. Best wishes.

  • Hi Nat14,I had a chronic bladder disease that turned cancerous.The tumour was aggressive so cystectomy was the only option.Having had over 30 years of repeated cystoscopies and treatment I don’t miss my bladder at all.The surgery has been life saving and freed me from severe pain as well as cancer.Best wishes for your husbands decision.It is a big surgery but offers a good chance of cure.Jane 

  • Thanks for responce minds a grade 2. Isolated  bladder cancer on second BCG Installation on August 

    They said nothing in front layer just red so it could be more hiding behind eason for August. 

    I can understand his worry  not progressing  beyond  the wall its self does play on your mind as could be more serious if happends.

    I just try to cope get as much info from this group im starting soon with.  Mind group with the mental stress and coping  from day to day. even the work.

    Yes its hard rather looking at the big picture of whats going on .

    Support groups ,friends family and your self to be a sounding board to listen being a partner going through  this is just as hard for your husband effects  both of you

    If possible  time away  like my husband  took me to Eastbourne  for the weekend   just time and space to reboot.

    Best wishes theresa doogan 

  • Hi all yer same here this is also something  new to me not knowing what theses actually  do better then my treatment  wasnt given any info on it.mines grade 2 isolated  bladder cancer on second treatment  of insolation  in august..

    So what is the differance. Is it more aggressive  or does it depend on how the cancer is progressing...

    Best wishes 

  • The higher the grade, the more likely to recur AND progress.