Preoperative irradiation and radical cystectomy in carcinoma of the bladder

Abstract

The general rationale for preoperative radiation and the particular reasons for employing short courses of preoperative irradiation with surgery are discussed. Treatment of high-stage, high-grade bladder cancer by preoperative irradiation to 2,000 rads midpoint to the whole pelvis in 4 days, followed by radical total cystectomy and ileal-conduit, is emphasized. The initial reports suggest no increase in morbidity and sufficient improvement in results to warrant continuing study.