The Top Reasons Why Someone Might Need a Neobladder

It is important to remember to talk to a trained urologist, as each case should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis; however, the top reasons why someone might need a neobladder includes bladder cancer. If someone has bladder cancer, they may need to have some or all of the bladder removed as part of the treatment process.

If you have questions about whether you might benefit from one, reach out to a medical professional who can assist you.

What is a Neobladder?

A neobladder is a type or urinary diversion available following a radical cystectomy. If you have a radical cystectomy, it allows you to store urine in your body. You continue to pass urine through your urethra.

The Risks of Having a Neobladder Placed

A neobladder is placed as part of a reconstructive procedure, so there are a few risks involved, including:

• Whenever the surface of the skin is broken, there is a chance that an infection could develop.
• During a surgical procedure, bleeding or blood clots could develop.
• There is also a chance of urinary leakage or urinary retention following the placement of it.
• Certain electrolyte imbalances may develop as a result of having it placed.
• Vitamin B12 deficiency could develop after it is placed.
• Sometimes, there can be a loss of bladder control following the procedure, which is called incontinence.

A neobladder is placed by a trained surgical professional. When all best practices are followed, the chances of complications and side effects developing are minimal. If you have questions about the risks, you should talk to a urologist who can assist you.

The Top Benefits of a Neobladder

There are several significant advantages of having one placed, including:

• No need for a stoma: Depending on the exact medical condition, it can eliminate the need for a stoma or an external collection device. People no longer have to worry about collecting urine in a bag and then emptying it later.
• Store urine normally: After it has been placed, patients should be able to store a normal volume of urine until it is a socially acceptable time for them to void their bladder.
• Lower infection and bleeding risk: Because the neobladder is placed on the inside, it reduces the chances of bleeding and infection that can be associated with a stoma.
• Urinate by choice: Having one, patients are once again in control. They decide when they use the bathroom.

These are a few of the biggest advantages of having a neobladder placed. Patients with questions about how they can benefit from a neobladder should talk to a medical professional.

Frequently Asked Questions About a Neobladder

Some of the most common questions people ask about a neobladder include:

Is it possible for a neobladder to develop cancer?

There is a small risk of a neobladder developing cancer. Many are made using living intestinal tissue. Therefore, it is possible for intestinal cancer to develop in the new bladder.

How long does it last?

Every case is different, but it is not unusual for it to last more than 10 years. If you have questions about how long your specific neobladder should last, you should talk to your doctor to learn more.

Can I urinate normally after having it placed?

In the vast majority of cases, someone with a neobladder is able to urinate normally. There is a small chance that you might need a catheter from time to time, but this is highly unusual. The biggest benefit is that you no longer need a pouch outside of your body to collect urine.

Do I need to empty my neobladder in the middle of the night?

It depends on how much liquid you consume and how big it is. There is a chance you may need to do so, but your surgeon can talk to you more about this.