Bladder Cancer Treatment in India

Surgical Treatment Options

Surgery is one of the most common treatments for bladder cancer. It’s used to remove tumors or, in advanced cases, the entire bladder.

Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumor (TURBT):

• A minimally invasive procedure.
• Used primarily for early-stage bladder cancer.
• A surgeon inserts a cystoscope through the urethra to remove cancerous tissues.
• Advantages include quick recovery and no external incisions.

Radical Cystectomy:

• Complete removal of the bladder.
• Often performed when cancer has spread deeply into the bladder wall.
• Lymph nodes in the pelvic region may also be removed to prevent further spread.

Urinary Diversion Surgery:

• Reconstructs the urinary tract after bladder removal.
• Types include an ileal conduit, continent urinary reservoir, or neobladder creation.

Chemotherapy for Bladder Cancer

Chemotherapy is often used to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth.

Intravesical Chemotherapy:

• Administered directly into the bladder.
• Suitable for early-stage cancers.
• Minimizes side effects as it targets the bladder lining directly.

Systemic Chemotherapy:

• Delivered through the bloodstream to treat advanced stages.
• Common drugs include Cisplatin and Gemcitabine.
• Often combined with other treatments like surgery or radiation for better results.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.

Advanced Radiation Techniques:

• Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) and Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) ensure precision.
• Protects surrounding healthy tissues from damage.

Benefits and Side Effects:

• Effective for patients unable to undergo surgery.
• Side effects may include fatigue, skin irritation, and changes in bladder function.

Immunotherapy in Bladder Cancer

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by empowering the immune system to target cancer cells.

Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors:

• Drugs like Atezolizumab and Pembrolizumab block proteins that inhibit immune responses.
• Effective for advanced or metastatic bladder cancer.

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Therapy:

• A type of immunotherapy administered intravesically.
• Prevents recurrence in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Holistic and Supportive Care

Comprehensive care enhances recovery and quality of life for bladder cancer patients.

Nutritional Support:

• Diet rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients boosts immunity.
• Consultation with a dietitian is recommended during and after treatment.

Pain Management:

• Palliative care focuses on reducing pain and improving comfort.
• Techniques include medications, physical therapy, and relaxation methods.