Preoperative and modifiable factors to lower postoperative complications after radical cystectomy

Abstract

Radical cystectomy is the gold standard for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. It is a challenging procedure comprising of two steps: removal of the bladder followed by construction of a new urinary diversion. Despite advances in surgical and postoperative management within the last decades, postoperative complication rates for this procedure are still considerably high. Many complications are avoidable in the pre-/intra-/postoperative setting by carefully selecting patients eligible for this procedure and by considering prophylactic measures. Fast-track concepts demonstrate current intentions to optimize perioperative management. This review summarizes the most recent studies and findings on how to lower postoperative complications with the help of preoperative and modifiable factors.