Survival after radical treatment for transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder

AimsTo investigate survival after radical treatment for transitional cell carcinomas of the bladder.MethodsThis retrospective study included 135 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder undergoing radical cystectomy or radiotherapy at Haukeland Hospital, Bergen, Norway, during the period 1981–1986. Forty-five patients had cystectomy and 90 underwent external high-dose radiotherapy.ResultsThe overall 5- and 10-year survival rates were 39 and 23%, respectively. After cystectomy 10-year overall survival rates for superficial and muscle-infiltrating tumours were 67 and 26%; after radiotherapy, the corresponding survival rates for superficial and muscle-infiltrating tumours were 26 and 5%, respectively.ConclusionsLong-term survival and cure can be achieved after cystectomy in many patients with aggressive superficial or muscle-infiltrating bladder carcinoma. The introduction of orthotopic neobladder reconstruction should encourage the use of cystectomy in patients with aggressive superficial tumour.