A cystectomy is a surgery to remove the bladder. Can you live life without a bladder? Radical cystectomy in men includes removing the prostate and seminal vesicles. In women, radical cystectomy usually removes the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and part of the vagina. After the procedure is done, your doctor will create a way for your body to store urine and have it leave your body by doing a procedure called urinary diversion.

Many procedures are done because the bladder stops working or because of bladder cancer or an injury. To help store urine, doctors will select two main types of pouching systems. One type of pouching system has both the pouch and skin barrier attached together in the same unit. When the pouch is removed, the barrier comes off. The two-piece systems have pouches and separate skin barriers. When the pouch is taken off, the barrier stays in place.  

Pre-Surgery

You should prepare before the procedure. Inform your doctors about any medications you are taking. Before the procedure, you may have to take antibiotics to prevent infection and take laxatives to help clean the bowels. You can’t eat or drink anything after midnight or on the morning of your procedure.

To start the procedure, you will be put under general anesthesia for about 3 to 6 hours. It results in painful recovery and might require you to stay in the hospital for about 5 to 12 days. You will have to go through many follow-up appointments in the first few weeks after the surgery and after a few months. 

Risk

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks. Some of the risks of removing the bladder are that you may face bleeding, infection, blood clots, and organ damage. If you are experiencing any extreme symptoms like persistent nausea and vomiting, heavy bleeding, pain, or swelling after your surgical discharge, contact your doctor as soon as possible. 

Cystectomy Recovery

During the first six weeks, you will have to restrict activities like lifting, driving, bathing, and going back to work or school for about 4 to 6 weeks. Your doctor will explain when it’s safe to shower, bathe, or soak in water. Once your bladder is removed, you will need to get used to a new way to pass urine from your body. This is a life-changing surgery, and it may take a while to get used to.

You will also have to adjust the way you travel and exercise. It can affect your body image, and many people worry about how it will affect your relationship and sex life. 

Some useful tips to help with the changes are to empty the pouch and try to keep it flat. Change it in the morning before you eat or drink. Use a mirror to help make sure your pouch is placed correctly. Wearing an ostomy belt to hold the pouch is a personal choice. Many people wear them to help with extra security. 

Urological Services

Many people will experience a full recovery after their surgery. It just takes some time to get used to living life without a bladder. So can you live life without a bladder? The answer is yes. If you need more guidance and are located in South Florida, contact Happy Urology. We have many different services, and we will test for bladder cancer and come up with a treatment plan to help your needs. If you have any questions or concerns, contact us today.