November 16, 2011
a. Bladder Cancer b. Resectoscope Cutting Loop cutting tumor
Today we visited our internist at the cancer institute to hear the results of the CT Scan and the following Cystoscopy of last week. I have now had two operations to remove the tumor from the bladder followed by twelve chemo treatments (Gemsitabine, Cisplatin, Carboplatin and Neulasta to improve the white blood cell production). The outcome of the CT Scan and the Cystoscopy (visual tests, no biopsy) show that the cancer growth in the lymph nodes in the pelvis area is stagnant and the cancer affected nodes are reducing in size with the largest affected node located in the groin of my right leg. The Cystoscopy (view in the bladder) shows no visual abnormalities aside from some scar tissue caused by the two earlier tumor removal operations.
The next step is to have an operation to remove the lymph nodes in the pelvis area. So I will be put in a schedule to undergo this operation in one of the coming weeks. The operation will be followed by 33 daily radiation sessions complemented by 7 chemo sessions (Vertibix). The chemo is suppose to be enhancing the efficacy of the radiation sessions. An telephone interview with the radiologist is made for next week and tomorrow we will meet the urologist who hopefully will inform us about all the ins and outs of the upcoming operation and be able and willing to answer all the questions that we have.
