Steve,
I have had chemotherapy without cystectomy. For transitional cell carcinoma, usually, the recommended chemo is cisplatin + gemzar, if it is intravenous. Basically, platinum salts work for killing these cells. I was also treated after surgery for flushing out any microscopic cells present. The main side effects of cisplatin is nausea and it is also toxic to kidneys. So, the docs should hydrate her before administering that drug. Hydration is very important.Gemzar is not that toxic. Some people have hair loss too with cisplatin. Since the docs are trying to treat only microscopic cells, they might recommend 3-4 cycles of chemo. In my case, since I already had a kidney transplant , I was given 2 cycles of cisplatin + gemzar and 2 cycles of carboplatin+ gemzar. Carboplatin is less toxic to kidneys than cisplatin. You will find more details about the various chemos at
blcwebcafe.org/chemosused.asp . Hope this helps.
Btw, have you had a second pathology opinion.
-Shoba.