Our Summary

This research looked at medical records from June 2016 to May 2019 to understand how well patients recovered after bladder surgery or urinary diversion surgeries. They looked at two groups, one with benign (non-cancerous) issues and another with malignant (cancerous) issues. They found that the group with cancerous issues did a better job at following post-surgery recovery plans, which included things like diet and exercise. This group also had fewer complications and shorter hospital stays. The group with non-cancerous issues had a harder time following the recovery plans and had more complications and longer hospital stays. The researchers suggest that more specific recovery plans could be designed for the non-cancerous group to improve their recovery time and reduce complications. They did not find a link between following the recovery plan and the likelihood of having to be readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the research conducted from June 2016 to May 2019 on bladder surgery or urinary diversion surgeries?
  2. Did the research find any difference in recovery between patients with benign and malignant issues post-surgery?
  3. Did the research discover a link between adherence to the recovery plan and the chance of hospital readmission within 30 days of surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing urinary diversion surgery to closely follow their post-surgery recovery plan, including diet and exercise guidelines, to help improve their recovery time and reduce the risk of complications. It is important to take care of your health and follow medical advice to ensure a successful recovery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended urinary diversion surgery include those with:

  1. Bladder cancer
  2. Neurogenic bladder dysfunction
  3. Chronic bladder infections
  4. Bladder dysfunction due to spinal cord injury or other neurological conditions
  5. Intractable bladder pain or interstitial cystitis
  6. Severe bladder damage from radiation therapy
  7. Bladder dysfunction due to congenital abnormalities
  8. Bladder dysfunction due to previous failed bladder surgeries

It is important for patients to discuss their medical history and symptoms with their healthcare provider to determine if urinary diversion surgery is the best treatment option for their specific condition.

Timeline

Before urinary diversion surgery:

  • Patient undergoes diagnostic tests and consultations with urologists to determine the need for surgery
  • Patient may undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy if surgery is for malignant issues
  • Patient is educated on the procedure and potential risks and complications
  • Patient may need to undergo preoperative preparations such as bowel preparation and dietary restrictions

After urinary diversion surgery:

  • Patient is monitored closely in the hospital for any immediate postoperative complications
  • Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days to a week for recovery
  • Patient will be given pain medication and antibiotics to prevent infection
  • Patient will be educated on postoperative care, including diet, wound care, and activity restrictions
  • Patient may need to follow up with their healthcare provider for regular check-ups and monitoring of their urinary diversion
  • Patient may undergo physical therapy to regain strength and function in the pelvic area
  • Patient may need to make lifestyle changes to adjust to the new urinary system, such as learning how to manage a stoma or catheter
  • Patient may need emotional support to cope with the changes in body image and lifestyle
  • Patient may experience improvements in quality of life and urinary function after recovering from the surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What type of urinary diversion surgery do you recommend for my specific condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with urinary diversion surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time and what can I do to facilitate a smooth recovery?
  4. Will I need to make any changes to my diet or lifestyle after surgery?
  5. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery?
  6. What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a problem post-surgery?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or complications I should be aware of?
  8. Will I need any additional treatments or therapies after the surgery?
  9. How experienced are you in performing urinary diversion surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options that I should consider before proceeding with surgery?

Reference

Authors: Shumaker L, Nocera A, Selph P. Journal: Urology. 2022 Aug;166:50-55. doi: 10.1016/j.urology.2021.08.029. Epub 2021 Aug 30. PMID: 34474041