Invasive bladder cancer, which invades the muscle wall of the bladder, often requires surgery. Treatment generally includes removal of the bladder and either construction of a “neobladder,” in which a new bladder is surgically fashioned to replace the cancerous bladder, or creation of an artificial opening (stoma) through which the urine drains.
Surgery for invasive bladder cancer is a major operation for which Washington University urologists are well trained and draw from experience with a large volume of cases. They work closely with other specialists at the Siteman Cancer Center to incorporate chemotherapy and radiation therapy, when needed.
More information on bladder cancer treatment at Siteman Cancer Center.