Bladder cancer affects more than 68,000 adults in the United States, and when it’s diagnosed at an early stage, this type of cancer is very treatable. Dr Sabharwal at Health Orlando and the medical team are the leading experts in diagnosing and treating bladder cancer. We offer the latest in treatment options, including management services and surgery. To learn more about the expertise of our skilled urologist, book an appointment online or by phone.

CAUSES OF BLADDER CANCER

Bladder cancer cells develop in the urothelial cells of your bladder. Cancerous cells can be the result of:

  • Smoking
  • Exposure to chemicals
  • Radiation
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Diagnosis

  • Cystoscopy. To perform cystoscopy, your doctor inserts a small, narrow tube (cystoscope) through the urethra. The cystoscope has a lens that allows your doctor to see the inside of your urethra and bladder, to examine these structures for signs of disease.
  • Biopsy. During cystoscopy, your doctor may pass a special tool through the scope and into your bladder to collect a cell sample (biopsy) for testing. This procedure is sometimes called transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT). TURBT can also be used to treat bladder cancer.
  • Urine cytology. A sample of your urine is analyzed under a microscope to check for cancer cells in a procedure called urine cytology.
  • Imaging tests. Imaging tests, such as computerized tomography (CT) urogram or retrograde pyelogram, allow your doctor to examine the structures of your urinary tract.CT urogram provide sa detailed view of your urinary tract and help your doctor identify any areas that might be cancer.

Treatment Options

TURBT

Transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) is a procedure to remove bladder cancers confined to the inner layers of the bladder. Alternatively, a high-energy laser may be used to destroy the cancer cells.

Cystectomy

Cystectomy is surgery to remove all or part of the bladder. During a partial cystectomy, your surgeon removes only the portion of the bladder that contains a single cancerous tumor. Partial cystectomy may only be an option if cancer is limited to one area of the bladder that can easily be removed without harming bladder function.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy treatment for bladder cancer usually involves two or more chemotherapy drugs used in combination. Chemotherapy drugs can be given: Through a vein in your arm (intravenously) Via a tube passed through your urethra directly to your bladder (intravesical therapy)