What treatment should i opt for.
Type 2b bladder cancer, non aggressive, I had TURBT operation to remove growth, I don't know if i should do Chemo with Radiotherapy or have a cystectomy. My urologist suggests the latter. Radiotherapist is optimistic, and my oncologist is on the fence. I'm confused
@Nicholas - I am not a medical professional but suggest getting a 2nd opinion from a uro-oncologist. It is unfortunate that your urologist and oncologist do not have the same opinion as to what would be your best treatment. There may be a reason why your oncologist is on the fence and I might probe in to that reasoning. We find doctors who we trust and hope that they can provide us with guidance based on their experiences and training but that may not always be the case. Again, I personally suggest another opinion and possibly find out more specifics as to treatment - time for the treatments - weeks, months, possible side effects, what if the treatment does not work, etc. While RC is not a easy surgery, many of us have gotten through it and gone on to have a great life. I think that you need more information to determine the pros and cons of each option and which would be best and most effective in the long run. I wish you the very best. Please keep us updated and know that we are always here to support you and answer questions when possible. Linda Urbanski (moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member)
Nicholas - If I may add one more thing to consider - I always ask my uro-oncologist - if I was your sister or mother, what treatment would you want me to have? Treating cancer is not like deciding which route to take on vacation or if you should drive or fly. This can be a life changing decision and should be made with that in mind. My best Linda Urbanski (moderator, Bladdercancer.net team member)
Thank you for your input, I have a meeting with my urologist on Monday to talk about RC and my options -conventional surgery, robotic surgery , and bladder reconstruction. I also have two additional tests prescribed by my oncologist, a bone scan, and a ct scan of my chest because I had a heart attack 6 years ago which damaged my heart to some degree. The oncologist wants to make sure i'm able to do chemotherapy. I was also told RC surgery is more difficult if at all possible after Chemo/Radiotherapy in case it is not successful. I'm also worried because i was told recurrence is more likely with Chemo/Radiotherapy. I'm having trouble coming to terms with having to live with a Urostomy pouch. This whole affair has left me confused as to what is best. Ideally i think I would like to try Chemo/Radiotherapy. But if it does'nt work ? What then ?
hi my husbAnd is going through exactly the same thing can I ask what decision did you come to and how are you now ?? Many thanks x
I need input from others who have been through the process to help me ask the right questions so that i can make an informed decision
hi. I am not medically trained so can’t provide specific medical advice: I have lived with a urostomy and a colostomy for 5 years plus. Yes recovery takes time but you can get back to a normal life. I work full time and fly long haul. I can’t tell you the right decision for you. I can say that if you have your bladder removed, there is a good life to be lived. This link might help https://bladdercancer.net/living-with-a-urinary-diversion Laura, Moderator, BladderCancer.net
