There are 2 non-invasive stages. Stage Ta has not invaded the lamina propria. Stage T1 has invaded the lamina propria, but not the muscularis. Both can be treated without cystectomy. However, for the best long-term outcome, it's desirable to get the bladder out before the cancer becomes invasive, so if you have multiple recurrences of high grade cancer in spite of treatment, even without invasion, it's best to get the sucker out. That's what I did, and I have no regrets.
-Warren
TaG3 + CIS 12/2000. TURB + Mitomycin C (No BCG)
Urethral stricture, urethroplasty 10/2009
CIS 11/2010 treated with BCG. CIS 5/2012 treated with BCG/interferon
T1G3 1/2013. Radical Cystectomy 3/5/2013, No invasive cancer. CIS in right ureter.
Incontinent. AUS implant 2/2014. AUS explant 5/2014
Pediatrician