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Bladder cancer: Is a stoma the same as an ostomy?
Ostomy | Last Active: Aug 15, 2020 | Replies (29)Comment receiving replies
I have a very dear friend who has been diagnosed with bladder cancer. They scanned her and it has not metastasized, fortunately. She is now in the process of receiving chemotherapy ... 2 weeks on (2 days a week) and 1 week off, then the pattern repeats. They are anticipating that either late August or early September they will be able to do surgery and then she will have a "stoma" - I don't think that's the name for kidney/bladder problems, but more for intestines. She's been dealing with this for about 2-3 months now and except for fatigue she's doing well. Can anyone tell me what exactly it is like to have this surgery? Where is the incision, the bag, how long is the recovery and how long until one learns how to change the bag. Thanks very much.
harp player - abby
Replies to "I have a very dear friend who has been diagnosed with bladder cancer. They scanned her..."
@amberpep This is a very kind and considerate thing, to get some information on your friend's situation. This will certainly help you to understand what she is going through, and also help her, knowing she has a friend who is so concerned for her! How is she feeling today, and are you both in the same town to be able to offer support?
Ginger
Hello, @amberpep . I am very glad to hear that your friends bladder cancer has not spread. That’s really good news. Is she doing alright with the chemo?
I found this information on bladder removal. Recovery can take awhile since it’s major surgery. She can expect to remain in the hospital for 4-5 days and during this time she’ll learn how to care for the ureterostomy. The hospital will probably set up for homecare. Nurses will come to the house and continue to teach her.
You can be invaluable help to her by listening and supporting her. Talk about all the fun things going on and forget the current news. Facebook is a great way to communicate. You have sounded so positive lately that I know you’ll be good for her!
Please feel free to ask us more question. Becky
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@amberpep, I'm glad to get an update about your friend. You'll notice that I moved message to this discussion that you started earlier. I did this so that members like @katydid77 @becsbuddy @singalsk @engelee @bcstew @hodagwi @nene22 @john0416 @tattrigoo who are familiar with bladder cancer and stomas can offer first hand knowledge and experience.
You can get some information here from the American Cancer Society
- Urostomy https://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatments-and-side-effects/treatment-types/surgery/ostomies/urostomy/what-is-urostomy.html
But I agree that it really helps to talk with people who have gone through the experience of getting a urostomy. Members here can help answer your questions about what the surgery is like. Where they make the incision, the recovery time and how long until one learns how to change the bag.
How is she doing on chemotherapy, Abby?