FAQs on bladder cancer

FAQ

Usually, non-invasive bladder carcinomas (in the uppermost layers of the bladder wall) are completely removed using transurethral resection-B. Immediately after the surgery (within the first 6 hours, but no later than 24 hours), a so-called early instillation is performed using a cytostatic drug (usually mitomycin). This early instillation is intended to kill scattered tumour cells and prevent their adhesion (attachment) to the urothelium. Non-invasive bladder carcinomas have the tendency to recur. So-called relapses occur.

Depending on the stage of the tumour and in order to effectively prevent the recurrence of the tumour or the progression of the disease, regular vesicoclysis (intravesical instillation treatment) should be performed after surgically removing the tumour. Regular cystoscopies are necessary to detect any new tumours as early as possible, i.e., before they cause discomfort or grow deeper into the bladder. In addition, urine is examined for any changes in the cells.

You can contribute significantly to the treatment by ensuring that you make it to all bladder instillation and cystoscopy appointments. It is important to perform these treatments regularly over a longer period of time. This way, the risk of recurrence can be reduced significantly.

Observe changes in your bodily functions: blood in the urine, urge to urinate, irregular or painful urination. These changes can indicate the recurrence of a bladder tumour. You should consult your doctor if these symptoms occur.

Smoking is one of the main risk factors for the development of a bladder tumour. Avoid this risk factor at all costs. Stop smoking!

A functional immune system combats pathogens, foreign substances and even degenerate cells. Support your immune system by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Healthy diet and light exercise also contribute to your general well-being.

This treatment starts after the tumour is surgically removed. The mitomycin solution (20 ml or 40 ml) is introduced into the bladder through the urethra using a thin catheter. The catheter is then removed. The solution remains in the bladder for about 1-2 hours, after which you can empty your bladder naturally.

  • In general, mitomycin treatment is well tolerated.
  • However, bladder irritation is possible after the treatment. Bladder inflammation is also possible. Other typical symptoms include increased urge to urinate, pain in the bladder area and a burning sensation in the urethra – possibly with blood in the urine. However, your doctor can treat these symptoms well.
  • Skin irritations that can be caused by an allergic reaction have also been frequently observed.
  • Intolerance reactions to the active ingredient or to other components are very rarely observed. In this case, it may be necessary to discontinue the treatment.
  • Please inform your doctor immediately about these or any other side effects.

 

  • Inform your doctor about all existing ailments (e.g., bladder inflammation). In such a case, mitomycin treatment must not be carried out.
  • Name all medications/therapies you are currently taking.
  • Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Inform your doctor if mitomycin did not agree with you during the earlier treatment (allergic reaction).
  • Drink as few fluids as possible before the treatment so that the mitomycin solution can remain in the bladder for about 1-2 hours.
  • During and up to 6 months after the therapy, contraceptive measures must be used during sexual intercourse.
  • You can find more answers in the Mitomycin Patient Alert Card, which you can download from our service material page.
  • After approx. 1-2 hours of the BCG solution being in the bladder, the bladder should be emptied in the sitting position. Avoid the spraying of urine drops. Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
  • After emptying the bladder, it is recommended that you drink lots of fluids to rinse out your bladder.
  • Unprotected sexual intercourse should be avoided during the 6-week treatment (basic cycle) and for one week after the last instillation (during maintenance therapy).
  • After approx. 1-2 hours of the mitomycin solution being in the bladder, the bladder should be emptied in the sitting position. Avoid the spraying of urine drops. Wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.
  • After emptying the bladder, it is recommended that you drink lots of fluids to rinse out your bladder.
  • Unprotected sexual intercourse should be avoided for 3 months after the treatment.
  • Inform your doctor about all existing ailments (e.g., bladder inflammation). In such a case, it is possible that BCG treatment is not carried out.
  • Tell your doctor about all medications you are currently taking (e.g., blood thinners, antibiotics etc.).
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