Bladder removal

Hi. My husband has had 11 BCG treatments and yesterday his latest biopsy results show grade 3/high grade urothelial carcinoma with lamina proprietary invasion.  He is not sure what to do.  Robotic/normal surgery and is terrified of having a stoma so is looking at possibility of neo bladder.  He does not know what questions to ask when he sees a new consultant on 1 July.  Can you advise please.  Thank you

  • Hi Pilar and thank you for your post.

    I am sorry to hear about your husband and the difficult time that he is having. It sounds like both of you have much to think about.

    Since I'm not directly involved in your husband’s care, I cannot determine which options are the most suitable. The best person to consult is your husband’s hospital specialist, who has all his medical information.

    In helping your husband decide it may be helpful for him to read our webpages on bladder cancer treatment.

    Reading the pros and cons for every treatment may help him decide which option is more suitable for him. It is a question he could ask his specialist.

    Macmillan also have a webpage on questions to ask your healthcare team which might be helpful.

    The hospital where your husband is being treated may have a cancer information and support centre, sometimes these are run by the hospital or Macmillan Cancer Support. Also there are Maggies that can provide information and emotional support to people affected by cancer. You don't need to visit a Maggie's Centre; they can provide advice and support over the phone.

     I hope this helps a little and the links above are useful.

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5 pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards

    Tina