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Questions posted in the
The Urology Forum have been answered by urologists from Henry Ford Health System and by Dr. Kevin Pho.
Question Title: cancer re-occurence.. optionsForum: The Urology Forum
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In august 96 I had my bladder removed, following chemotherapy & radical radiotherapy for invasive bladder cancer. Unfortunately the cancer has re-occurred at the site of the bladder and was picked up by a CT scan in September 97. I have just finished months of MCV chemotherapy and my last CT scan shows clear. My questions are.. I was told in Sept 97 that surgery was not an option once the bladder has been removed....is this always so and why ?? I have had prostatitis-like symptoms ever since the bladder was removed....could this be due to the radiotherapy affecting the prostate and pelvis in general, and are there any treatment options ?? thank you for your opinions, Geoff = Dear Geoff Sorry to hear your cancer came back but it is good news that it seems to be in remission after further treatment. The prostate is usually removed during a radical cystectomy so “ prostatitis “ in the literal sense is impossible. The radiation alone or previous surgery in the area does not usually cause chronic pelvic pain but your body has been through a lot. Pain clinics run by anesthesiologist are one of the most effective ways in modern medicine to manage chronic pain. I would start with your oncologist to see what avenues he/she has regarding pain management. Surgery alone or in combination to remove the residual tumor is not logical because the chances of getting all the tumor is small. The tumor is usually wide spread and this is ideal for chemotherapy. Radiation instead of surgery after cystectomy is used for local control of the disease. You are welcome to visit our oncology services at the Henry Ford Hospital main or suburban campuses for a second opinion. We have multiple research protocols available which you might qualify for. If interested, call 1 800 653 6568 for an operator who can arrange an appointment. . We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians’ notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. Good Luck Sincerely; HFHS-M.D. MS * Keyword: pain management, bladder cancer
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