Oncology

Bladder Cancer Treatment in Istanbul

Bladder cancer most often shows itself as blood in the urine, and smoking is the most important risk factor. Treatment differs greatly depending on whether the tumour has grown into the bladder muscle. New City Clinic coordinates assessment and treatment with the urology and oncology teams of its partner hospitals in Istanbul.

Assessment and diagnosis

Before a treatment plan is made, the type and stage of the disease are established. This usually involves:

  • Cystoscopy (camera examination of the bladder)
  • Keyhole removal of the tumour (TURBT) and pathology: has it reached the muscle?
  • CT urography of the kidneys and urinary tract
  • MRI where needed and chest CT for spread

Treatment approaches

Tumours that have not reached the muscle are removed endoscopically and, depending on the risk, treatments are given directly into the bladder; regular cystoscopy checks are important. For muscle-invasive tumours, drug treatment is usually given before surgery to remove the bladder (radical cystectomy); urine is then diverted into a new bladder made from bowel or into a bag on the abdominal wall. For suitable patients, a bladder-sparing plan combining surgery, drug treatment and radiotherapy is also an option.

  • Endoscopic tumour removal (TURBT)
  • Treatments given directly into the bladder
  • Radical cystectomy with a new bladder or a stoma
  • Bladder-sparing treatment; systemic treatment in advanced disease

The tumour board decides which methods are used and in what order. The treatment plan is determined after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests.

For patients from Europe, the Middle East and Africa

New City Clinic coordinates oncology care for patients travelling from European countries, the Middle East and Africa. Istanbul has direct flights from many capitals in these regions, and the assessment starts from your reports before you travel.

  • You can send your reports in English or in your own language; the necessary translations are arranged.
  • For patients from countries that need a visa, a hospital appointment and invitation letter is provided for the application.
  • Airport welcome, accommodation close to the hospital and arrangements for a companion are organised.
  • Your treatment summary is prepared in English so that you can share it with your oncologist at home.

Partner hospitals with oncology centres

Oncology care is coordinated at the following partner hospitals, which have oncology centres. The hospital is chosen according to your condition, your physician and your preference.

How the process works

  1. 1

    Send your documents

    Pathology report, imaging reports and images, discharge summaries and a list of your medication.

  2. 2

    Physician’s review

    Your file goes to the relevant oncology physician; missing tests and a possible pathway are set out for you in writing.

  3. 3

    Plan and quote

    The expected tests, treatment steps, length of stay and itemised costs are given in writing.

  4. 4

    Treatment in Istanbul

    Airport welcome, accommodation, appointments and interpreting are organised by New City Clinic.

  5. 5

    Follow-up

    You receive your treatment summary and reports to share with your physician at home.

Frequently asked questions

How will I pass urine if my bladder is removed?

Through a new bladder made from bowel (neobladder) or a channel to a bag on the abdominal wall. Which suits you depends on kidney function, age and the position of the tumour.

Why are the check-ups so frequent?

Non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer tends to come back; regular cystoscopy finds it early. Some of the check-ups can be done in your own country.

Which documents should I send?

The pathology report, CT/MRI/PET-CT reports and, if possible, the images themselves, operation and discharge reports, blood tests and your medication list.

Can you give any assurance about the outcome?

No. No institution can guarantee the result of cancer treatment. Your physician will explain expectations and risks for your situation openly.

How is the cost determined?

It depends on the tests required and on the type and length of treatment. An itemised written quote follows the physician’s assessment.

Other cancer types

Back to the oncology section

This page is for general information and is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. A treatment plan is determined only after a physician’s examination and assessment of your tests. In an emergency, contact your local medical services.

Get your free quote today

Send your photos and questions; a surgeon’s assessment and your quote usually arrive within 24 hours. The consultation is free and without obligation.

Include the country code, e.g. +44 7700 900000

WhatsApp