How long can a person live after a complete bladder removal for bladder cancer and using a urine bag?

Jun 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

How long can a person live after complete removal of bladder cancer and wearing a urinary bag?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Mingchuan
The survival time after a complete cystectomy for bladder cancer and the use of a urinary bag varies from person to person and is influenced by multiple factors. The stage and malignancy of the disease directly affect the patient's life expectancy. For patients with early-stage bladder cancer, where the tumor is at an earlier stage and less aggressive, active treatment and proper care may allow long-term living with a urinary bag, with survival times potentially exceeding 5 years or more. However, for patients with intermediate or advanced-stage bladder cancer, where tumors have deeply invaded or metastasized, even after radical cystectomy, survival time may be shorter, with an average life expectancy of approximately 1 to 2 years. It is important to note that patients who actively undergo comprehensive treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy may extend their survival period, and in some cases, survival duration can exceed 5 years.