A Leader in Bladder Cancer Treatment and Care

A world-renowned center for bladder cancer care, USC Urology is at the forefront of developing innovative treatments, cutting-edge techniques and medical breakthroughs, delivering better outcomes and recovery times for patients with all stages of bladder cancer. Our team performed the first orthotopic bladder reconstruction, eliminating the need for a urostomy bag, and pioneered blue light cystoscopy, an advanced diagnostic tool for identifying bladder tumors.

As leaders in advanced robotic surgery, we offer a wide range of surgical options, including minimally invasive procedures for faster postoperative recovery times, fewer complications and lower readmission rates. We also use an enhanced recovery protocol program that includes postsurgical activity and other measures to decrease the amount of time our patients spend in the hospital.

How We Lead in Bladder Cancer Treatment

Treatments We Offer

Our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive, evidence-based bladder cancer treatment options tailored to your individual needs.

• Endoscopic Tumor Removal: An option for low-grade tumors, endoscopic tumor removal generally permits the surgical removal of the tumor while leaving the surrounding organs and tissue intact.
• Immunotherapy and Chemotherapy: These targeted treatments may be used before or after bladder cancer surgery to improve outcomes and quality of life.
• Radical Cystectomy: This surgical procedure removes the bladder and is commonly used to treat high-grade, invasive bladder cancer. Minimally invasive techniques such as robotic surgery and traditional open approaches are both available. Cystectomy provides the best survival outcomes and the lowest rate of cancer recurrence.
• Urinary Diversion: If the bladder is removed in a cystectomy, this procedure creates a new pathway for urine to exit the body. Our surgeons work with each patient to determine the optimal technique best suits their lifestyle and needs.
• Trimodal Therapy: With trimodal therapy, the tumor is removed with an endoscope, followed by radiation and chemotherapy. This procedure is available for select patients and aims to preserve the bladder.

Diagnostic Tests We Offer for Bladder Cancer

What Are the Signs of Bladder Cancer?

Bladder cancer can be detected early if prompt attention is given to its symptoms. If you experience any of the following bladder cancer warning signs, it is very important to visit your doctor as soon as possible.

• Blood in the urine: This is the most common sign of bladder cancer, and it is generally painless. Blood may appear slightly red, pink or rusty.
• Changes in bladder habits: Many bladder cancer warning signs imitate symptoms of urinary tract infections, including urinary urgency, urinary frequency and pain or burning during urination.
• Trouble urinating: Trouble urinating or a weak urine stream may be a sign of bladder cancer.
• Unexplained pain: Unexplained pain along the side of the body, abdomen or pelvis may also be a symptom of bladder cancer.
• Decreased appetite: An unexplained decrease in appetite may be among the symptoms and signs of bladder cancer.