UZ develops an individualized care path for bladder cancer patients involving state-of-the art technologies and treatments

CRIG

Bladder cancer is an important health problem, especially for male people in their sixties and older. At the UZ, different specialists (urologists, radiologists, radiotherapists, medical oncologists, pathologists, nurse specialists, …) work together to provide the best possible treatment and care for these patients in a care path involving personalized medicine and state-of-the-art treatments.

The bladder cancer care path starts with a correct and thorough diagnosis. After excluding a bladder infection (which might cause similar symptoms), a CT-scan and cystoscopy is typically performed to investigate the bladder. If deviant tissue is observed, a biopsy can be taken for further investigation by a pathologist.

Based on the results of these examinations (type of tumour, stage, spread, general condition of the patient), the multidisciplinary team of urologists, radiologists, radiotherapists, medical oncologists, pathologists, nuclearists and nurse specialists together discuss the different treatment options for each patient. Afterwards, the different options are explained to the patient so he can make an informed decision about his follow-up.

Different experts at the UZ are researching and improving the available diagnosis and treatment options using state-of-the art technologies. Examples for diagnosis include the use of multiparametric MRI imaging (combining static with dynamic images to better estimate the aggressiveness of a tumour – Prof. Geert Villeirs) and molecular diagnostics (biomarkers in f.e. urine – Prof. Sofie Verbeke). Regarding treatment options, extensive robotic surgery (Prof. Karel Decaestecker) and trimodality therapy (Prof. Sylvie Rottey) are associated with important health benefits compared to the more standard treatments.

All this expertise, combined with extensive guidance and follow-up during treatment and revalidation, together make an excellent care path for bladder cancer patients at Ghent University Hospital.

Read more in the UZ letters magazine.