Treatment of bladder cancer
Treatments for bladder cancer vary depending on the stage of the cancer. The goal of treatment is to remove the cancerous cells and prevent recurrence. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are three of the most common treatments for bladder cancer. Each one of these treatments has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the stage and type of bladder cancer that a patient is facing.
- Surgery is the most common treatment for bladder cancer. Depending on the patient’s situation, surgery patient’sve removing the entire bladder, a partial cystectomy, or bladder tumor removal. Additionally, lymph nodes may also be removed in order to reduce the risk of the cancer spreading. Surgery is an effective treatment option, as it can remove a large portion of the cancerous cells.
- Radiation therapy is another common treatment option for bladder cancer. This type of treatment involves using high-energy x-rays or other forms of radiation to target and destroy cancerous cells. This can be a useful option for patients who cannot undergo surgery or for those whose cancer has spread and is difficult to remove surgically. Radiation therapy can be given in two forms: external beam radiation and brachytherapy.
- Chemotherapy is the third most common treatment for bladder cancer. This type of treatment involves using drugs to kill cancer cells and prevent them from growing. Chemotherapy is usually given intravenously and is often used in combination with other treatments such as surgery and radiation. It can be a very effective treatment option for those with advanced bladder cancers that have spread to other body parts.
Overall, bladder cancer is a common form of cancer with a wide array of treatment options. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are all viable options for those dealing with bladder cancer. However, each has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the stage and type of bladder cancer that a patient is facing.
