Surgery is the preferred treatment for most bladder cancers. For superficial disease, our approach is usually to remove the tumor using transurethral resection of the bladder (TURBT), a procedure similar to a cystoscopy. Your doctor inserts a cystoscope into your bladder through your urethra to remove the tumor. After removal, we use additional treatments, such as radiation therapy or intravesical therapy, to destroy any remaining cancer cells.

During intravesical therapy, liquid medication or chemotherapy, is placed directly in your bladder through a long thin tube inserted through the urethra. 

Invasive bladder cancer is often treated with removal of the bladder (radical cystectomy). We commonly use chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgery or destroy cancer cells left behind after surgery. Our highly skilled urologic surgeons excel in reconstructive techniques that enable the body to store urine. This helps many people maintain their ability to urinate.

Radiation therapy along with chemotherapy is a possible alternative to surgery that may allow you to keep your bladder. Your doctor will help you understand the advantages of both approaches so you can make a decision that’s right for you.

Chemotherapy, immunotherapy, targeted therapy and radiation therapy may also be options when other treatments don’t work or if cancer has spread beyond the bladder.

Clinical trials are a routine part of bladder cancer treatment discussions. Participation in a clinical trial can give you access to new care methods years before they are widely available and is always voluntary. If you are eligible for a specific trial, your provider will explain the benefits and risks of participating and the next steps for enrollment.