Invasive Bladder Cancer - Non Cystectomy Treatments???

Carmine, Actually my husband Gene asked our surgeon about transplants. He said there has been nothing so far to come up with a way to do it, nerves are a major factor. So much for that. We know how shocked you must be, you walk around thinking, I look good, I feel fine, I can play golf, so why do I have to do this.We thought that way right up until the day of surgery. You will get past it, at 50 I suggest looking at the neo-bladder or the Indiana pouch, Zack can guide you with the neo. he has everything...and he back to normal. I am no expert as my husband has the outside pouch, but at your age consider the other two options. Ginger

Hi Carmine,

My RC/neobladder was done DaVinciat Mayos in Rochester MN. I was happy with the procedure which was 3.5 hours. I had marginally failed an EKG so a long surgery was not ok. Doing this with robotics is very new - looks like MD Anderson started doing it only a year ago. Just be sure to ask lots of questions - who would be doing it, their experience, how many lymphnodes are getting removed - it all matters. Let me know if I can help. Wendy is wonderful and may be able to direct you to lots of important info in deciding.
And keep in mind too that sometimes a choice is made but once surgery begins the plan changes based on what the surgeon finds in there. So it could be a little different than what you hope for, All my best, Holly

Well little tiny mice are getting transplanted bladders but nothing on the human front yet...they're growing them from bladder cells but who would want a new bladder grown out of their present defective one...not I.
Carmine you're young...you've got a great hospital in Johns Hopkins...they have an excellent record with neo-bladders......but you're the one thats got to decide. Everyone here whatever their diversion is seems to have adjusted completely to it. You've already done the most important part...getting to the right hospital and a very experienced surgeon. Pat

Hi All!
Thanks for your insight. I am now resolved to removing the bladder. My Dr. is awaiting my decision. Now I must consider DaVinci Robotic or Dr. with hands on. I also must decide internal bag, external bag or neo bladder. Any info. would be great! I've already read alot about some of these things here on the forum, just not enough to help me decide. I know this sounds a little weird but has anyone done anything with bladder transplants? (don't even know if it's possible). I am still in shock at the diagnosis.

- Carmine -

Carmine,
We on the forum are pretty direct when being asked about bladder removal. Thats because we too were in your place at one time of our journey. We all asked the same questions, and were devastated at the answers. Facing the reality is hard, but remember ,the cancer will be gone, and you will have your life. I was looking for the answer I wanted, no one could give it me either. Today I have compassion for you as we all need that as well. You will get thru it, Zack told me " don't let your cancer define you", as it seems to invade your every thought. Let us know your choices as you go on, facility, Doctors, as many on the forum are aware of the specialist around the country. Were here to help.....Ginger

Hi Carmine,

Welcome to this site.It is the best place to be when a bladder cancer dx comes. The news of invasive BC came as a shock to me ( I am 42 and female) and sorting thru the possible treatments was hard. It seemed surreal that I was going thru it. Once I understood what I was facing, found Drs I was able to trust, and commit to a plan of attack against the cancer - it became more manageable and survivable. I did the RC/neobladder then 4 months of chemo which was finished 2 months ago. It was not easy but the folks here really helped me get information and sage advice since the day I found this web cafe. We'll be here for you too
Although bladder removal seems like a drastic step to fight the cancer - it is also the best option. And depending on the stage there is sometimes chemo done before or after the surgery. Ask questions and do your research - talk to people who have been where you are. There are some real good guys on this site who are very open to sharing their experience and knowledge as to how this affects men. There is life after BC, RC and chemo You are in my prayers, Holly