Followup after resection of bladder cancer – pro

There are not many studies of followup of a completely resected bladder cancer. However, a recent study fails to demonstrate a survival benefit for detecting tumor recurrence early at an asymptomatic stage by regular followup examinations. These data show that symptom guided followup examinations may provide similar results at lower cost. However NCCN recommends followup afer a complete cystectomy with urine cytology, cretinine, electrolytes every 3-6 months, urethral cytology every 3-6 months, monitoring for B12, if a continent diversion was created.

It also advises imaging of chest, abdomen and pelvis every 3-6 months based on the risk of recurrence every 3-6 months for two years, then as clinically indicated.

NCCN.ORG, Bladder cancer, p.16

Volkmer BG, Kuefer R, Bartsch GC Jr, Gust K, Hautmann RE.Oncological followup after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer-is there any benefit? J Urol. 2009 Apr;181(4):1587-93; discussion 1593. Epub 2009 Feb 23.

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