Life after radical cystectomy: A mixed-methods targeted review of patient-reported quality of life following bladder removal

Background

Radical cystectomy (RC) is a life-altering surgery primarily used to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) and, occasionally, high-risk non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC). While this procedure can be lifesaving, it often leads to significant changes in quality of life (QOL). This review synthesizes the current quantitative and qualitative literature on QOL outcomes for RC patients, highlighting areas of impact and minimal recovery post RC.

Methods

A targeted literature review was conducted in Medline, searching for studies using qualitative methods to report patient experience and important aspects of QOL outcomes among RC patients between 2013 and 2024. A second search was performed focusing on clinical studies that reported QOLs using quantitative methods. Studies were screened based on study population and type of reported outcomes. Nine qualitative studies were selected to identify important themes related to QOL concepts. There were seven quantitative studies that were selected to extract the results of reported patient outcomes. These results were categorized using the themes identified (Sexual Functioning, Physical Functioning, Emotional Functioning, Work Functioning, Activities of Daily Living and Family-Social Functioning). Key QOL areas were examined and organized by the severity of impairment and potential for recovery.

Results

Patients experienced disease impact on sexual functioning and physical mobility as well as emotional well-being, daily living activities, work functioning and social interactions, with the first two domains most profoundly affected by RC. Emotional challenges and dependence on family support were prevalent post RC, with some gradual improvements in the second year. Qualitative findings also underscore the complex emotional and social adjustments patients undergo.

Conclusion

This review highlights the extensive impact of RC on multiple dimensions of QOL, suggesting a critical need for improved patient counselling and long-term support strategies. The findings highlight the importance of educating patients about the potential changes in QOL when considering treatment options. With shared patient and clinician decision making in specific cases of NMIBC, bladder sparing strategies may be considered, depending on the clinical contexts and patients' individual needs.