Information about bladder removal

Yes fighterm I'm sure it was enlarged, but the dr. said the tumor was quite large. Didn't ask the actual size, I referred to it as "the elephant in my closet". Close enough.
And, yes, Sara Anna, I should have never started smoking, but one can't take back stupid choices already made, one can only "suffer" the consequences of the incorrect decision.
From what I understand at this point my urologists will call me with the results of the catscan (whenever that's completed) and I'll be seeing the cancer doctor. This cancer doctor will be responsible for kimo and radiation, which is needed regardless of what procedure needs to be done. After that, I'm referred to a urologist or surgeon at UC Davis in Sacramento.
So if anyone out there knows of a good bladder cancer doctor/surgeon at UC Davis in Sac., I would very much appreciate the information.
I'm trying to get all of my ducks in a row at this point.
Thank you all again,
Breeze

The tumor on the monitor was most likely zoomed in. You can ask your dr how big it is. Mine looked very big on the screen and I asked about the actual size. He said a thumbnail size.

Thank you SO much Sara Anna and Alanlee for your posts, especially considering it's Thanksgiving! I was going to ask how long of a hospital stay and Sara Anna, when you mentioned, long recovery ~ what is long and what are the restrictions. I live by myself and have 3 dogs. If the surgery is necessary, I have to find a live in dog sitter and also someone to help me after surgery. I'm trying to get everything prepared. My urologist isn't doing the surgery. He's referring me to a cancer doctor who I'm assuming is going to do the surgery. I live in a very small town in Ca. and will have to go to a hospital about 25 miles or so away. I'm going to be talking to a female cancer doctor in that area. I think I'd prefer a woman surgeon, just because women probably would know more about female plumbing than a male doctor. But, at this point, I guess a highly recommended surgeon will do.
If anyone has had any of the procedures Sara Anna mentioned to me, can you let me know the pros/cons about each.
I'm 71, female, a long time smoker. I quit smoking the day after I saw that tumor on the monator.
Thank you all ever so much,
Breeze

Breeze, just to add some positive info, my first wife's husband had his bladder removed and was in good shape otherwise. He is 67 and he was out of the hospital in one week (I believe it is usually 2 weeks)and is now (6 months) on his treadmill and doing just about everything he was before, and looks 10 years younger.

He has the outer conduit and he says it just needs getting used to but does not stop him from doing anything and he is like a new man. I hope you have the same outcome if you do require this surgery.

alanlee