Once your cancer has been diagnosed and staged, there is a lot to think about before you and your doctor choose a treatment plan. You may feel that you must make a decision quickly, but it is important to give yourself time to absorb the information you have just learned. Ask your cancer care team questions. You can find some good questions to ask in the section, "What should you ask your doctor about bladder cancer?"
You will want to weigh the benefits of each treatment against the possible risks and side effects. The best treatment for you will depend on the cell type and stage of your cancer as well as your general health, age, and personal preferences.
You may want to get a second opinion about your best treatment option. This can be especially helpful if you have several treatment choices. A second opinion can provide more information and help you feel more confident about the treatment plan that you choose.
The main types of treatment for cancer of the bladder are surgery, radiation therapy, intravesical therapy, and chemotherapy. A type of treatment may be given alone or in combination with other types, depending on the stage of the cancer. Surgery, alone or with other treatments, is used in more than 90% of cases.