Is surgery recommended for an 86-year-old man with bladder cancer?

Whether surgery is recommended for bladder cancer in an 86-year-old man needs to be comprehensively evaluated based on the tumor stage, the patient's physical condition and tolerance. Early-stage patients can choose transurethral bladder tumor resection, while late-stage patients need to combine chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The occurrence of bladder cancer is related to factors such as smoking, long-term exposure to chemicals, and chronic bladder inflammation. Early symptoms include painless hematuria, frequent urination, and urgency. Late-stage symptoms may be accompanied by weight loss, bone pain, and other manifestations.

1The treatment plan for bladder cancer needs to be determined based on the tumor stage and the patient's overall health status. Patients with early bladder cancer can choose transurethral bladder tumor resection, which is a minimally invasive surgery with small trauma and fast recovery, and is suitable for elderly patients. For muscle-invasive bladder cancer, radical cystectomy is the standard treatment option, but the patient's cardiopulmonary function and surgical tolerance need to be evaluated. For advanced patients who cannot tolerate surgery, conservative treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or immunotherapy can be considered.

2. The surgical risk assessment of elderly patients includes multiple aspects such as cardiopulmonary function, liver and kidney function, and nutritional status. Detailed examinations are required before surgery, including electrocardiogram, lung function, blood routine, biochemical indicators, etc. For patients with severe cardiopulmonary diseases, the surgical risk is higher and they need to be selected with caution. Cardiopulmonary function exercises can be performed before surgery to improve nutritional status and enhance surgical tolerance.

3 The occurrence of bladder cancer is related to many factors. Smoking is the main risk factor. The harmful substances in tobacco can cause bladder mucosal cells to become cancerous. Long-term contact with dyes, rubber, leather and other chemicals can also increase the risk of disease. Chronic bladder inflammation, bladder stones and other diseases may induce cancer. Certain genetic factors may also increase the susceptibility to bladder cancer.

4 Early symptoms of bladder cancer mainly include painless hematuria, and the urine is meat-washing water-like or bright red. Some patients may experience bladder irritation symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and difficulty urinating. Late-stage patients may experience systemic symptoms such as weight loss, loss of appetite, and anemia. When the tumor metastasizes to the bones, symptoms such as bone pain and pathological fractures may occur.

5. Postoperative care is particularly important for elderly patients with bladder cancer. Closely monitor vital signs after surgery to prevent complications such as lung infection and deep vein thrombosis. Keep the urinary catheter unobstructed and observe the color and volume of urine. Encourage patients to get out of bed and move around early to promote the recovery of intestinal function. Pay attention to wound care to prevent infection. Cystoscopy and imaging examinations should be reviewed regularly after surgery to monitor tumor recurrence.

Whether elderly patients with bladder cancer should undergo surgery requires comprehensive consideration of tumor stage, patient physical condition and surgical risks. It is recommended to develop an individualized treatment plan under the guidance of a professional doctor, closely follow up after surgery, improve quality of life and prolong survival. For patients who cannot undergo surgery, conservative treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy can be selected, while paying attention to nutritional support and psychological counseling to improve quality of life.