New to the board question on Cystectomy

Ray,

Best thing you can do... getting a second. Since your going to John Hopkins, I am just wondering what area you are from. I too went to JH for a 2nd. I'm in the DC metro area (Prince William County).

Roy,

Your appointment on Tuesday is with the doctor who wrote the book I often recommend to others as a good source of information about bladder cancer and it's treatments (it's also found as suggested reading on the WebCafe as well), it's titled THE GUIDE TO LIVING WITH BLADDER CANCER by Dr. Mark P. Schoenberg.  That's really terrific and Johns Hopkins is one of the top places for getting the best care for cancer and urology, that's from a list compiled by US News and World Report (I think that's the magazine, it is also referenced on the WebCafe if I'm wrong).
I know you'll be in the care of some of the best health care professionals for bladder cancer, all that said still doesn't mean you'll necessarily click with them as providers.  But give yourself and them a chance if there is any sort of personality problem, as emotions are high in this sort of situation (newly diagnosed/new doctor etc).
Best of luck, and keep in touch.

Lou Graham

Just want to say thanks to Lou, Zachary, Wendy, and Mike. The diagrams, the words of explaination, and the words of support mean so much to me at this time I'm hoping that my stress level will be reduced in the coming days. This site has been a blessing to me. I'm starting to find hope instead of despair.
I have a appointment with Dr Mark Shoenberg on Tuesday at John Hopkins for a second opinion.
Thanks again
Ray

Ray,
No doubt you are in the midst of one of the most difficult times. I am 5 1/2 weeks post-op from a cysectomy with neo-bladder. I remember the weeks before the surgery were agonizing. A lot of why me and will I ever be the same. Ray, I just want to say that my surgery went well. I am moving a little slower than before and getting used to life with a neo-bladder.

I look at it now as a series of small transitions. The most memorable for me still was my first shower. Mine did not come until the 3rd day post-op. I can still feel the wonderful water and good clean feel I came out with. Funny how these things make you appreciate the little things.

Anyway, I ramble on... I see others have answered your primary question about removal of the bladder muscle but remember if you have any question AT ALL... there are plenty who will offer their experience.

Best Wishes... keep us informed!

I didn't notice that about the picture--I followed every step of your instructions and just copied the URL, so my guess is that the medline just links to the image on the urologyhealth site.

It looks like the exact same picture because it is!

That's really funny because it's the exact same drawing, just shown through a different site.