Overcoming Bladder Cancer: The Most Common Treatment Options
Bladder cancer is a disease that affects millions of individuals around the world. It occurs when the cells in the bladder start to grow abnormally and form tumors. While researchers are still trying to pinpoint the exact cause of bladder cancer, there are treatment options available for those who have been diagnosed. Seeking medical attention and receiving timely treatment can help patients overcome the disease and prevent it from spreading to other organs.
This article will explore the most common treatments for bladder cancer. We will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of surgical procedures like transurethral resection and radical cystectomy. We will also evaluate traditional and newer chemotherapy options, radiation therapy, and advancements in minimally-invasive surgical procedures. Lastly, we will highlight the role of immunotherapy and provide tips for patients and caregivers on how to manage the side effects of bladder cancer treatments.
Understanding the Benefits of Surgical Procedures and Chemotherapy
Surgical procedures are one of the most common treatments for bladder cancer. The doctor might recommend either of the following depending on the stage and severity of the cancer:
Transurethral resection (TUR)
TUR involves inserting a small, thin scope or camera into the bladder through the urethra. The scope guides a looped wire or electrocautery wire that removes the tumor. This procedure is generally done in an outpatient setting, meaning the patient can go home the same day. The majority of individuals who have early-stage bladder cancer undergo TUR.
Radical cystectomy
Radical cystectomy involves removing the bladder entirely. In advanced stages of bladder cancer, the doctor may consider removing the entire bladder. This procedure often necessitates hospitalization and usually involves creating another way for the patient to excrete urine, such as an external bag or surgically constructing a way to store urine in the body and excrete it naturally.
Chemotherapy is another treatment strategy that can be utilized alone or in combination with surgery. It involves introducing special drugs, either via an oral medication or intravenously, that kills or slows down the growth of cancer cells. Its effectiveness varies from individual to individual depending on several factors, including the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer. Although it can make the individual feel sick and experience hair loss, the side effects are usually temporary.
Radiation Therapy: The Most Common Treatment
Radiation therapy deploys high-energy rays targeted at the location of the tumor to seek and destroy cancer cells. This therapy can take varying time frames ranging from weeks to months, depending on the severity of the cancer. It is a non-invasive procedure that does not necessitate hospitalization. However, it may cause some short-term side effects such as fatigue, skin irritation, and frequent urination.
Radiation therapy is known to be the most common treatment for bladder cancer, especially when the cancer cells are confined to the bladder for its preventative and curative effects. It may follow a TUR procedure to eradicate any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy can also be collaborated with chemotherapy for a better outcome. The patient needs to talk with the doctor to determine the best treatment choice given their specific situation.
Exploring the Latest Advancements in Minimally-Invasive Surgical Procedures for Bladder Cancer
Advancements in medical technology have facilitated several innovations in surgical procedures, leveraging better patient outcomes, reduced risk of infection, and faster recovery time. Minimally-invasive surgery is an example of such innovation, which involves using specialized instruments to perform a surgical procedure through small incisions. Two of the most common minimally-invasive surgeries used to treat bladder cancer today include:
Robotic Surgery
Robotic surgery is a type of minimally-invasive surgical procedure that utilizes a specially designed robot to perform surgery. The robot’s arms carry out the surgery according to a surgeon’s instructions fed to it through a computer console. Robotic surgery necessitates a highly skilled surgeon and a specialized team to manage it, making it more costly. Nevertheless, it can provide availability to parts of the body that are challenging to reach through traditional surgery.
Laparoscopic Surgery
Laparoscopic surgery involves a surgeon making a small incision and then using a tiny camera and various surgical instruments to remove the tumor. The small incisions lead to a quicker recovery process while reducing the risk of complications.
Both methods are less invasive than traditional surgeries, leading to less blood loss and quicker recovery time. And they get performed under general anesthesia rather than a full-blown surgical procedure.
Understanding the Role of Immunotherapy in Combating Bladder Cancer
Immunotherapy forms a new treatment option that focuses on the patient’s immune system to fight the cancer cells. The immunotherapy drugs are targeted towards specific proteins made by cancer cells, allowing immune cells to target and destroy them. It is a newer treatment modality that is growing in popularity among patients, particularly in the second or third line setting. Although the side effects of this treatment are generally milder, the therapy may become challenging for a few.
A recent study demonstrated that patients with advanced bladder cancer utilizing immunotherapy had increased survival rates compared to those utilizing traditional chemotherapy when the cancer had spread beyond the bladder. Immunotherapy is still an area of study, with new and improved medication being developed every year.
Providing Support to Those Enduring Bladder Cancer Treatment: Tips for Caregivers and Patients
Though every cancer patient has different experiences, everyone needs emotional and practical support when enduring cancer treatments. Caregivers play an essential role in supporting, advocating, and helping patients manage care during their cancer treatment period. Here are a few tips for patients and caregivers:
Tips for Caregivers
- Maintain open communication with your loved one
- Organize and keep track of medical appointments, medication, and treatments
- Coordinate with family and friends to help reduce caregiver burden
Tips for Patients
- Eat healthy foods rich in nutrients
- Exercise regularly when possible
- Seek out support groups to connect with individuals undergoing a similar experience
A cancer diagnosis can take an emotional toll on both patients and their loved ones; individuals should utilize resources provided by the clinic to navigate this challenging time.
Conclusion
Bladder cancer is a serious disease, but with timely intervention and well-informed decisions, one can overcome this health challenge. The most popular treatments currently include surgical procedures, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, minimally-invasive surgery, and immunotherapy. Caregivers and patients are advised to communicate with their doctor and explore various support groups to help deal with the emotional and physical strain that comes with seeking treatment.
