Bladder cancer treatment

A diagnosis of bladder cancer can feel overwhelming. But at Advocate Health Care, we combine compassionate care with a full range of treatments to help you fight the condition with confidence.

Each of our cancer institutes across Illinois is staffed by a specially trained team of urologists, reconstructive urologists, medical and radiation oncologists, surgeons, nurses, genetic counselors and more who are dedicated to caring for patients with bladder cancer. We’ll work closely with you to create the best possible treatment plan, including access to ongoing clinical trials and a full range of cancer support services to meet your needs.

Find an Advocate Cancer Institute near you.

Treatments we offer

Treatment of bladder cancer depends on a variety of factors, including the type and stage of cancer, as well as your overall health and personal preferences. Our goal is keep you feeling well throughout treatment without major changes to your usual routine.

Surgery often is recommended for bladder cancer. Options include:

• Transurethral resection (TUR): A minimally invasive procedure performed through the urethra to remove the cancer or burn it away with high-energy heat.
• Cystectomy: Segmental cystectomy involves removing a section of the bladder, so you maintain normal urination. Radical cystectomy involves removing the entire bladder and any lymph nodes that have cancer. Nearby organs also may be removed if the cancer has spread. After radical cystectomy, the surgeon reconstructs an alternate way to urinate.

Whenever possible, our board-certified surgeons use the da Vinci® Robotic Surgical System to perform cystectomy. This advanced technology allows for smaller incisions, which spare vital nerve and muscle tissue. Patients often experience less pain, a shorter hospital stay and quicker return to normal urinary function.

Radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy also may be recommended to treat bladder cancer, as well as newer options like immunotherapy. With this innovative treatment, medication is applied directly to the bladder through a catheter, which then triggers your immune system to attack and kill cancer cells.

Need a second opinion?

One of our experts can confirm a diagnosis, review your treatment plan or explore alternate options, if needed.

Learn about our Second Opinion Program.