Laparoscopic cystectomy is the most effective treatment for bladder cancer. The procedure can be performed using traditional open surgical methods, hand assisted laparoscopy, or robotic assisted using the da Vinci system.
Laparoscopic cystectomy can sometimes be a difficult and long operation. Most medical experts agree that laparoscopic cystectomy is ideally accomplished by an experienced surgical team, which consists of more than one urologic oncologist. Dr. O’Connell collaborates with internationally renowned urologic oncologist David B. Samadi, M.D., http://www.roboticoncology.com, to perform the procedure.
Laparoscopic cystectomy has many advantages over traditional Open cystectomy:
·Reduced fluid loss
·Shortened post-operative recovery time - typical hospitalization ranges from 4-7 days
·Reduced blood transfusion requirements
·Reduced post-operative pain
·Quicker return to bowel functions
·Better cosmetic results due to small surgical incisions.
Similar to traditional open cystectomy, the procedure involves urinary diversion and reconstruction after the bladder has been removed for both men and women. For women, the uterus and part of the vagina may need to be removed with the bladder. In a male patient, the operation starts by dissection of the seminal vesicles. The bladder is then separated from the abdominal wall and all the adjacent tissue and organ attachments. The specimen which includes the bladder and the prostate is removed.
If you would like to talk to Dr. O’Connell about this procedure or make an appointment, please fill out a Contact form or call (610) 259-3000
James R. O’Connell, M.D., F.A.C.S. Urologic Oncologist
