An update of combined modality therapy for patients with muscle invading bladder cancer using selective bladder preservation or cystectomy

Abstract

Purpose: We update the results of tri-modality treatment for patients with muscle invading bladder tumors with selection for bladder preservation based on tumor response to induction therapy.

Material and methods: We reviewed the literature on modern tri-modality bladder preserving approaches using transurethral resection, radiation and concurrent chemotherapy followed by either bladder conservation with careful surveillance for complete responding patients or prompt cystectomy in those whose tumors persist after induction therapy.

Results: The published experiences from 3 centers and 2 prospective trials done by the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group were evaluated for 5-year overall survival of patients selected for bladder preservation or prompt cystectomy (49 to 63%) and for those with a conserved bladder (38 to 43%). The overall 5-year survival rates were comparable to other series of immediate cystectomy based approaches in patients of similar age and presenting with tumors of similar clinical stage. Of patients treated with the bladder preserving approach 20 to 30% cured of muscle invading cancer will subsequently have a new superficial tumor. The superficial tumors have responded well to intravesical drug therapy. Modern bladder preserving treatments usually result in a well functioning bladder without incontinence or significant hematuria. However, concurrent systemic chemotherapy and radiation have the potential for acute morbidity. Presently the ideal candidate for bladder preservation has primary clinical stage T2 tumor, no associated ureteral obstruction, visibly complete transurethral resection and complete response after induction chemoradiation based on endoscopic evaluation including re-biopsy and cytology.

Conclusions: It is recommended that tri-modality treatment be administered by dedicated multimodality teams. In this country this approach to treatment is available at many of the institutions participating in the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group study. This treatment may be considered a reasonable alternative in patients who are deemed medically unfit for cystectomy and for those who are seeking an alternative to radical cystectomy.