Overview

Cystectomy (sis-TEK-tuh-me) is a surgery to remove the urinary bladder.

In men, removing the entire bladder (radical cystectomy) typically includes removal of the prostate and seminal vesicles. In women, radical cystectomy also involves removal of the uterus, ovaries and part of the vagina.

After having your bladder removed, your surgeon also needs to create a urinary diversion — a new way to store urine and have it leave your body. There are multiple ways that urine can be stored and eliminated after bladder removal. Your doctor can help you decide which method is best for you.

Often, cystectomy is performed to treat invasive or recurrent noninvasive bladder cancer. Cystectomy may also be performed to treat other pelvic tumors — such as advanced colon, prostate or endometrial cancer — and some noncancerous (benign) conditions — such as interstitial cystitis or congenital abnormalities.