Bladder Cancer Treatment
Symptoms of Bladder Cancer
You are not alone if you have recently been diagnosed with bladder cancer. Bladder cancer affects thousands of Americans each year, and it is the fourth most common cancer in men.
Early Stages
The most common symptom for both men and women is blood in the urine. Other signs and symptoms of the early stages of bladder cancer include:
- Frequent urination (more than is usual)
- Having trouble urinating
- Discomfort or burning sensation while urinating
Advanced Stages
If bladder cancer has progressed, additional symptoms can be present, including:
- The inability to urinate
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen feet
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
Many of these symptoms can indicate other medical issues or conditions, such as urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, or an enlarged prostate (for men). However, if you have been diagnosed with bladder cancer, it is crucial to understand the condition's progression and how that can affect your treatment options.
Stages of Bladder Cancer
Using the information on the size of the cancerous tumor and whether it has spread to lymph nodes or other organs, Dr. Herrera can determine your cancer’s stage. These stages help determine which cancer treatment will be most effective based on the reach and size of the tumor. Dr. Herrera can use your existing health history and examinations to evaluate your condition at our Tijuana, Mexico, practice.
Stage 0
The cancer is only present in the interior bladder. It has not spread into the bladder wall or nearby lymph nodes or organs.
Stage I
The cancer has grown into the bladder lining, but not the muscles of the bladder wall. It remains contained within the bladder organ.
Stage II
The cancer has spread into the bladder lining and the muscle layer of the exterior bladder.
Stage III
The cancer has grown outside of the bladder, into the layer of fatty tissues around the bladder. Stage III can also mean cancer has reached the prostate, uterus, or vagina but has not yet reached the lymph nodes or other organs.
Stage IV
The cancer has potentially:
- Spread into the pelvic or abdominal area but has not reached the lymph nodes or other organs.
- Spread to nearby lymph nodes but has not reached other organs.
- Reached the lymph nodes and other areas of the body such as bones, lungs, or the liver.
Take a Closer Look at The Stages of Bladder Cancer
Cancer Treatment Options
Dr. Herrera will create a custom treatment plan for you based on your unique situation and cancer progression. Your surgery is done inside the NewCity Medical Plaza Building. He utilizes laparoscopic techniques to perform minimally invasive procedures. This technique allows shorter recovery times, smaller and more discreet incisions, and reduced trauma to your bladder and surrounding tissues. Dr. Herrera might recommend:
TURBT Treatment
Transurethral resection of the bladder tumor, the most common surgical treatment, is used to precisely remove cancerous tissue from the inner layers of the organ.
Cystectomy Treatment
Dr. Herrera performs partial or radical cystectomies for patients. The entire bladder and surrounding lymph nodes are removed with a radical cystectomy.
Reconstructive Surgery
For patients who undergo the surgical removal of cancerous tumors, Dr. Herrera also performs reconstructive surgery to restore the function of your bladder.
Chemotherapy or Radiation Therapy
Chemotherapy is often used in muscle-invasive bladder cancer to fight cancer cells. Radiation therapy can also help destroy cancer cells to ensure the best results.
Calmette-Guérin
Initially, a vaccine to fight tuberculosis, the doctor may recommend this treatment after your surgery to prevent bladder cancer from returning.
5-Star Reviews From Tijuana, Mexico Patients
“Dr Luis Herrera is the best of the best! I had an easy and smooth experience with him he is at the top of his field and very easy to communicate with.. all and all my best experience with any doctor ever! His follow up care is excellent he answers ALL emails very quickly with compassion and top knowledge (I sent endless emails!) I am endlessly thankful to dr Herrera and give him top recommendation five star experience!! View On Google”
“Dr. Herrera, has been awesome! The only Dr that really cared about me and walked thru how my surgery would be. He kept us informed by calling, emailing thru the whole process. I live in the states but I drove hours to see him for my reversal procedure and it was a full success. Some might be afraid of going to Mexico to have any kind of medical, but it was the best thing I did. I truly recommend Dr Herrera for any of your needs. View On Google”
Dr. Luis Herrera
Urologist · Board-Certified Urologist
Dr. Luis Herrera is a second-generation urologist practicing in his hometown of Tijuana, Mexico. After completing his medical degree at Autonomo University in Guadalajara, he began an impressive career in urology that includes a five-year residency, board certification from Consejo Nacional Mexicano de Urologia A.C., a position as the Chief of Surgery at Public Medical Center in Tijuana, and membership in several international urology organizations.
Learn More About Dr. Herrera