Urethral Cancer Surgery

Surgery is the most common treatment for urethral cancer. Small, superficial tumors may be removed completely. Tumors that are large or invade into other structures or tissues require more extensive surgery. In men, part or the entire penis may be removed (a partial or total penectomy). The bladder, prostate, and lymph nodes may also be removed. In women, the urethra, bladder, vagina, and lymph nodes in the area may be removed. Plastic surgery may be needed to make a new penis or vagina.

If your bladder or your urethra is removed, your surgeon will make or build a urostomy, which gives you a new way of eliminating the urine. You will then need to wear a small pouch under your clothes to collect the urine. Having a urostomy can have an impact on your comfort and your sexuality. Ask your surgeon what to expect in your case and for advise in dealing with it. An enterostomal therapist will work with you on how to take care of it.