Cystectomy

Surgical removal of the bladder, used for treating bladder cancer (see bladder tumours). It is followed by 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 cystectomy an external pouch is worn for the collection of urine.