Diagnosed with high grade T11, No Mo

17 years 7 months ago #1146 by wendy
Replied by wendy on topic Diagnosed with high grade T11, No Mo
Hi Jean,

I just wanted to say that 72 is not old! Not for bladder removal, perhaps not even for a neobladder or internal pouch either. The fact you're in good health will help you a lot post-op. Arthritis is nothing to sneeze at, maybe that is why the doctor is choosing for the external pouch surgery, because it means a shorter operating time.

I have to tell you though, everyone I know who's had the external bag has learned to live with it, says their quality of life is good. There have been studies comparing the 3 options for urinary diversions and strangely enough, all three techniques get good reports from the patients, all were equally well-received.

No, unfortunately you're not alone, or should I say fortunately? For a cancer that's supposed to be for older white men, I keep meeting women with this diagnosis all the time.

I wish you all the best,
Wendy

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17 years 7 months ago #1144 by Mike
Replied by Mike on topic Diagnosed with high grade T11, No Mo

It sounds like you are getting excellent advice. I have the same diagnosis and have opted for an RC at a major medical institution. Hoping you have the very best care. Have courage.

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17 years 7 months ago #1143 by Jmema
Replied by Jmema on topic Diagnosed with high grade T11, No Mo
I am seeing the surgeon in Hartford, CT.on Aug.31. My urologist told me he would recommend complete cystectomy with the pouch because of my "age" but my cat scan, bone scan, blood tests were all good so the oncologist I saw said to let the surgeon decide. It seems like a very radical surgery for someone my age even though I am in reasonably good health except for arthritis. It is really hard to get my head wrapped around all of this so just reading this board has been so reassuring. We live in a rural area so have to travel pretty far for everything.
The diagnosis was called "high grade" on the pathology report and it said there was "at least superficial invasion of the muscularis propia" which is the reason for the surgery.
Radiation and chemo do work for some but the damage caused by the radiation to the intestines can be very serious. Some are fortunate enough to have the chemo/radiation work but from what I read the majority end up having their bladder out eventually and after the radiation it becomes more difficult. We are about 3 hrs. from New York so my son wants me to at least go for a consulation to Sloan Kettering.
Jean

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17 years 7 months ago #1142 by Rosemary
Replied by Rosemary on topic Diagnosed with high grade T11, No Mo
When you say surgery, do you mean a cystectomy?

And, since I am only a layperson, I'm not sure what your grade and stage are???

I'm sure this diagnosis was a shock to you, as it was to many of us....

When do you plan surgery?


Rosemary
Age - 55
T1 G3 - Tumor free 2 yrs 3 months
Dx January 2006

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17 years 7 months ago #1141 by Jmema
I am a 72 year old female who has never been in the hospital except for the birth of my three children so I was opting for chemo and radiation but my urologist, oncologist and even the Dr. who would be doing the radiation therapy all say surgery. I have already gotten so much information from this site. It makes you feel like you are not alone.
Jean

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