Bladder Cancer Treatment

The inner lining of the bladder consists of transitional epithelial cells. A tumor is a malignant growth arising from the bladder wall and often protruding into its inner cavity. Most bladder tumors in Israel originate from this transitional epithelium due to uncontrolled cell proliferation.

Though these tumors are cancerous and can spread to nearby tissues or distant organs, not all bladder cancers behave the same. It’s important to distinguish between different subtypes of bladder oncology in Israel.

There are two primary types of bladder cancer:

• Superficial (non-muscle invasive) — confined to the epithelium and supporting tissues (85% of cases)

• Invasive — penetrates deeper into the bladder wall and muscle
  

When diagnosed early, the disease is often manageable, and bladder tumor treatment in Israel usually does not require aggressive surgery or harsh therapies.

Bladder cancer is rare in younger individuals and becomes more common after age 60. It affects men three times more often than women.

While the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors are clearly established. Smoking and long-term exposure to industrial chemicals and dyes significantly increase the risk.

The most common symptom is blood in the urine. It may be visible to the eye or only detectable through lab testing. Urination may be accompanied by burning or discomfort, and the urge to urinate may become more frequent.

At early stages, additional symptoms are typically absent. However, any urinary abnormalities warrant prompt examination. While these symptoms may indicate conditions such as kidney stones or prostate enlargement, bladder cancer must be ruled out.

If blood is found in the urine, several diagnostic tests are necessary. This condition falls under the specialty of urology, so a consultation with a urologist is essential.

After medical history and physical exam, further tests are typically performed on an outpatient basis:

• Cystoscopy: A thin endoscope is inserted through the urethra into the bladder, allowing direct visualization of its interior. A biopsy may be taken if abnormalities are seen. The procedure is done under local anesthesia and does not require hospitalization. Temporary burning with urination may occur afterward.

• CT Urography: A contrast-enhanced CT scan that highlights the urinary tract, including kidneys, ureters, and bladder. It provides a broader view than ultrasound or regular CT and helps determine the source of bleeding.

At Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov), bladder oncology treatment in Israel follows a two-phase approach:

Stage One: Tumor Removal

Surgical removal of the tumor (resection) is typically done under general anesthesia using a resectoscope, inserted through the urethra. No incisions are made. Most cases are scheduled; emergency surgery is only needed for ongoing bleeding. Resection often resolves bleeding.

If complete removal is not possible due to size or depth, a biopsy is taken to assess tumor type and invasion depth. A catheter remains in place for several days after surgery to allow healing.

Mild bleeding and discomfort during urination are expected and usually temporary. Most patients return to daily activities within 2–3 days.

Treatment decisions depend on pathology results.

Stage Two: Further Treatment Options

1. Superficial tumor (confined to the epithelium):
   No further treatment may be necessary, but recurrences are common, particularly in the first years. Regular follow-up with a urologist is essential.

2. Tumor beyond epithelium but not into muscle:
   Still considered non-muscle-invasive but requires intravesical therapy. The most effective agent is BCG, which stimulates local immune response. Cytotoxic drugs may also be used. This therapy aims to prevent recurrence, especially for multiple tumors or rapid relapse. Treatments are given weekly for six weeks via a thin catheter inserted into the bladder. Temporary burning or abdominal discomfort may occur.

3. Muscle-invasive tumor:
   In this case, transurethral resection is not sufficient. A full cystectomy (bladder removal) is usually needed, involving an abdominal incision. The goal is to remove all cancerous tissue.
   
   Urinary diversion options after bladder removal include:

• Urostomy bag attached to the abdomen

• Continent internal pouch emptied via catheter

• Neobladder allowing normal urination through the urethra
  

Yes. Most bladder cancers are superficial. Resection and intravesical therapy (such as BCG) often lead to complete remission. While recurrence is possible, regular check-ups (urinalysis, cystoscopy, and CT) allow for early detection and successful intervention.

For muscle-invasive tumors, full recovery is also possible following bladder removal and reconstruction. Many patients can urinate normally and return to their usual quality of life.

If you’re looking to treat bladder cancer without queues or access no wait bladder cancer treatment, Ichilov Hospital offers advanced care with minimal delays.

You can:

• Email the international department at medtour@tlvmc.gov.il

• Submit a request on this page by filling the form below

Within 24–48 hours, doctors will review your case and provide a personalized treatment plan. Begin your bladder cancer treatment in Israel without unnecessary delays and get access to world-class urological oncology care.