cystectomy

The cystectomy - The surgical removal of part or all of the bladder. The procedure is used for treating bladder cancer (see bladder tumours). Radical cystectomy (in which all of the bladder is removed) is followed by the construction of an alternative channel for urine, usually ending in a stoma in the lower abdomen (see urinary diversion).

In men, the prostate gland and seminal vesicles are also removed, usually resulting in impotence.

In women, the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes are removed. After radical cystectomy, the patient has to wear an external pouch to collect urine.