Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) Surgical Procedure: What to Expect

Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) therapy is a type of immunotherapy used to treat bladder cancer. It involves the use of a weakened form of the bacteria that causes tuberculosis to stimulate the body's immune system to attack and destroy cancer cells.

BCG therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence and progression in patients with early-stage bladder cancer.

BCG therapy is usually administered directly into the bladder through a catheter in a procedure called intravesical therapy.

This allows the BCG to come into direct contact with the bladder wall, where it can trigger an immune response against cancer cells.

BCG therapy is considered a standard treatment for certain types of bladder cancer and is typically recommended after surgery to remove tumors.

Indications of Bacillus Calmette-Guerin

BCG therapy is indicated for patients with early-stage bladder cancer who are at high risk of cancer recurrence or progression.

It is most commonly used in patients with non-invasive bladder cancer, which has not spread beyond the inner lining of the bladder.

BCG therapy may also be recommended for patients with intermediate or high-risk invasive bladder cancer, either before or after surgery to remove the tumor.

In some cases, BCG therapy may be used in combination with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, to improve outcomes for patients with advanced bladder cancer.

Steps involved in Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Surgery

The first step in BCG therapy is to prepare the bladder for treatment by emptying it of urine. The patient is then given a local anesthetic to numb the area before a catheter is inserted into the bladder.

• The BCG solution is then injected into the bladder through the catheter and allowed to remain in the bladder for a specific amount of time, usually about two hours.
• After the treatment is complete, the patient is usually advised to drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the BCG from the bladder.

Who will perform Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Surgery?

BCG therapy is typically performed by a urologist, a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the urinary tract, including bladder cancer.

The urologist will have received specialized training in administering intravesical therapy and will have experience in managing the side effects and complications that can occur with BCG therapy.

Preparing for Bacillus Calmette-Guerin Surgery

Before undergoing BCG therapy, patients may be advised to avoid certain medications that could interfere with the treatment, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs.

Patients may also be instructed to drink plenty of fluids before the procedure to help dilute the BCG solution and reduce the risk of side effects.

after Bacillus Calmette-Guerin surgery

After BCG therapy, patients may experience some side effects, such as urinary urgency, frequency, or discomfort while urinating. These symptoms usually improve within a few days and can be managed with medications or lifestyle changes.

It is important for patients to follow their doctor's instructions for aftercare, including drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding strenuous physical activity, and attending follow-up appointments to monitor their response to treatment.

Before and After Bacillus Calmette-Guerin surgery

Before BCG therapy, patients may undergo tests to assess their bladder function and overall health to determine if they are good candidates for treatment.

• After BCG therapy, patients may be monitored regularly with cystoscopies, imaging tests, and urine tests to check for cancer recurrence or progression.
• Patients may also be advised to make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly to reduce their risk of cancer recurrence.