Podcasts about cystoscopy

What John Morley originally thought was a urinary tract infection turned out to be a diagnosis of bladder cancer.  At first, he was told it was a mild form of the disease.  Then the diagnosis was upgraded to T2 Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer, requiring a radical cystectomy meaning he would need to get his bladder removed.  His care team next told John he would also have to get his prostate taken out.  Next a mass was detected on his spleen, which meant that it, too, would have to be removed.  Treatment and recovery were tough, but he now urinates into a bag known as an ileal conduit, has become acclimated to it and leads a healthy lifestyle.   John Morley of Haymarket, Virginia is a Navy veteran who enjoyed scuba diving, hiking and other outdoor activities when in late 2021, he noticed blood in his urine.  He sought medical attention with his primary care physician, who upon learning of John's symptoms, referred him to a urologist.  The urologist called for cystoscopy, a procedure in which a camera is inserted in the patient's urethra, and based on its results, said a biopsy would be needed.   John received a blend of bad and good news.  He was told he had bladder cancer, but because it was T1 Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer, the cancer had not spread from his bladder.  John and his wife felt like celebrating and went out to dinner.   However, a short time later, John Morley was called back into the doctor's office.  He and his wife were told a followup check of his pathology report showed his cancer had been upgraded to T2 Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer.  Not only did this mean John would have to undergo a radical cystectomy to remove his bladder, but the procedure would have to be preceded by two or three months of chemotherapy, a regimen that would include cisplatin and gemacitabine.   As he wondered what life would be like without a bladder, the news for John got worse.  He was told he would have to undergo a prostatectomy for the removal of his prostate.  Then a mass was detected in his spleen, and the spleen would have come out as well, all three in the same surgery.   The multi-faceted surgery was a success, but John had to decide how he was going to urinate.  Over two other options, he chose an ileal conduit.  It was attached to his stomach, close to his navel.  The urine drained into a urostomy bag.   Following the operation, John relied on walking to help him slowly regain his strength.  He has a good command of his use of the urostomy bag, and though it wasn't what he enjoyed pre-diagnosis, John Morley has returned to a healthy lifestyle that includes scuba diving.   Additional Resources:   Support Group: The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Group: https://www.bcan.org   John Website: https://www.beatbladdercancer.org            

September 13, 2024 Mark, Ray, and Scott discuss questions from the PRS Community.Hi,   In your Urology Times article on July 30th, there is mention of a proposed change to the practice expense component of cystoscopy due to updates in the supply valuation by CPT RVU Update committee.  It talks about "packs SA045, SA058 and SA042".  What are these packs and can you explain further how this will impact the in-office RVU for CPT 52000? thanksWe are looking for some guidance regarding images and the accessibility.  When coding procedures such as 50431 (images included in code) or 51600 or 51610 (images billed separately).  Does the coder physically need to see the images before submitting charges?  Or can charges be submitted if provider clearly documents images available? We know the images are readily available and are attempting to prevent additional work uploading to the chart for coder review.  Should we consider having a written policy in place?  Appreciate any advice or suggestions y'all may have.      PRS Billing and Other Services - Book a Call with Mark Painter or Marianne DescioseClick Here to Get More Information and Request a QuoteUrology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement Seminars - In-Person SeminarsRegister Now for the Urology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement SeminarClick Here for Information and RegistrationEvent DetailsLocation:Las Vegas: December 6-7, 2024, at HorseshoeNew Orleans: January 31-February 1, 2025, at Harrah'sTime: Friday 8 am - 4 pm, Saturday 8 am - 3:30 pmIncludes: Breakfast and Lunch on both days, plus 14 AAPC CEUs   The Thriving Urology Practice Facebook group.The Thriving Urology Practice Facebook Group link to join:https://www.facebook.com/groups/ThrivingPractice/    Join the discussion:Urology Coding and Reimbursement Group - Join for free and ask your questions, and share your wisdom.Click Here to Start Your Free Trial of AUACodingToday.com

This morning we played audio from police bodycams involved in Tyreek Hill's incident before the Dolphins game. Rick is dreading this Friday, thanks to a procedure involving his manhood. And wildfires are starting from an unlikely source in Colorado, a new pizza study caught our attention, and some guy in the Netherlands went to extreme lengths to get his stuff back from his ex-girlfriend! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

August 30, 2024 Mark, Scott, and Ray talk about questions that came into the PRS Communities.Hi, I have a coding question pls. Thanks so much.Our urologist performed HIFU a month ago. Pt. had come back for Dysuria postop complication, has been having dysuria for 2 weeks. Our urologist decided to perform Cystoscopy for this.Cystoscopy performed, but we did Not bring Pt. back to OR. So, it should Not be a billable serviceBut then, Per NCCI, Diagnostic test and procedures may be paid as a separate service during global.Should we bill CPT 52000? and If so, will modifier be -58, since it did not occur in OR so -78 would not be an appropriate modifier? Please suggest, thank you!Modifier 73 Question: Can this modifier be used when the patient is in the pre op area and he/she was given Dilaudid and another mediation and then prepped for surgery but then the patient decided they did not want to proceed because the pain medication made them feel better(Patient had a Kidney Stone). It seems resources were used and a block of time was scheduled for the facility. Wording can be a little different from our MAC, CPT, etc when some state the patient has to be taken to the operating room. Thanks for your time. Hi, We are getting some pushback and would like to know when/if ureteral stents are billable intraoperatively. Our providers are placing a stent, performing pyeloplasty in the same ureter, and the stent is routinely removed one week later.Is this stent placement an inherent part of performing the primary procedure, or is this a billable service? Thank you!PRS Billing and Other Services - Book a Call with Mark Painter or Marianne DescioseClick Here to Get More Information and Request a QuoteUrology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement Seminars - In-Person SeminarsRegister Now for the Urology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement SeminarClick Here for Information and RegistrationEvent DetailsLocation:Las Vegas: December 6-7, 2024, at HorseshoeNew Orleans: January 31-February 1, 2025, at Harrah'sTime: Friday 8 am - 4 pm, Saturday 8 am - 3:30 pmIncludes: Breakfast and Lunch on both days, plus 14 AAPC CEUs   The Thriving Urology Practice Facebook group.The Thriving Urology Practice Facebook Group link to join:https://www.facebook.com/groups/ThrivingPractice/    Join the discussion:Urology Coding and Reimbursement Group - Join for free and ask your questions, and share your wisdom.Click Here to Start Your Free Trial of AUACodingToday.com

What is the role of blue light cystoscopy in bladder cancer? In this episode, Dr. Suzette Sutherland interviews Dr. Suzanne Merrill from Colorado Urology about the benefits of this technology in the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer, and how to implement it into your practice. --- CHECK OUT OUR SPONSOR Photocure https://www.photocure.com/ --- SYNPOSIS The doctors start by discussing the advantages of using blue light cystoscopy, including better detection rates of Ta and T1 lesions and the reduction of cancer recurrence by as much as 11%. They highlight the importance of complete transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) and patient compliance. Dr. Merrill emphasizes the necessity of accurate risk stratification and the logistics of real-life incorporation. Finally, she also comments on new bladder cancer technologies, such as narrow band imaging. --- TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Introduction 03:45 - Epidemiology and Risk of Bladder Cancer 05:48 - AUA Guidelines for Bladder Cancer 08:01 - Mechanism and Benefits of Blue Light Cystoscopy 10:33 - Practical Applications 34:48 - Conclusion --- RESOURCES Photocure https://www.photocure.com/

Dr. Rena Malik is a board-certified urologist specializing in female pelvic medicine, among many other things. She is dedicated to dispelling medical misinformation and talking about the topics many shy away from through her podcast and social media platforms. She provides individualized care for bladder health, sexual dysfunction, hormone management, and pelvic pain.  In today's episode, we talk about how to approach getting an interstitial cystitis diagnosis, the types of tests you should be asking for, and what you should be looking for when searching for a doctor. Dr. Malik also shares her insight on how hormones and your cycle can affect IC and its symptoms.  Links:  Dr. Malik Instagram Rena Malik MD Podcast Dr. Malik YouTube Book an appointment with Dr. Malik Work with me: Take my FREE QUIZ to learn what's holding you back from relief from IC! Join Road To Remission to get relief from your symptoms in just 3 months Learn about my offers Other links: Shop my digital store for E-cookbooks, meal plans, and more! Read my blog Connect with me! Instagram Tiktok Youtube Facebook Pinterest Website Email: support@callieknutrition.com

June 7, 2024Mark and Scott discuss FAQs that came into the PRS communities.  Are you obligated to bill the new Category 3 CPT code for penile shockwave therapy, which we currently provide as a cash service? Specifically, do we have to use the Category 3 code when billing Medicare patients, even though there is no payment associated with it, and can we continue collecting cash without making it a Medicare billable service?Is cystoscopy a moderate risk (level 4) procedure for medical decision making purposes absent other risk factors? Does it matter for MDM risk what discussion or thought process is documented? Or would that only be toward the medical necessity of the procedure?CPT code 55250 says it is including postoperative semen examinations. So far we have done these in house but my physicians would like to no longer perform those and are currently looking into purchasing FELLOW kits to sell to the patients. We do not have any labs in town that perform post vas semen analysis. Any advice on what to do when patients refuse to purchase the kit?If Trimix is a compounded drug wouldn't J7999 - Compounded drug, not otherwise classified be more appropriate to vs J3490? Urology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement VIRTUAL SEMINARRegister Now for the Urology Advanced Codingand Reimbursement Virtual SeminarJoin us on July 27th, 2024, for a live Zoom meeting from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm EST, and master the latest in urology coding and reimbursement with ease.Special Early Bird Discount Code: 24UACRVE7Click Here for Information and RegistrationPRS Billing and Other Services - Book a Call with Mark Painter or Marianne DescioseClick Here to Get More Information and Request a QuoteUrology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement Seminars - In-Person SeminarsRegister Now for the Urology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement SeminarSpecial Early Bird code: 25UACRS732 Click Here for Information and RegistrationEvent DetailsLocation:Las Vegas: December 6-7, 2024, at HorseshoeNew Orleans: January 31-February 1, 2025, at Harrah'sTime: Friday 8 am - 4 pm, Saturday 8 am - 3:30 pmIncludes: Breakfast and Lunch on both days, plus 14 AAPC CEUs   The Thriving Urology Practice Facebook group.The Thriving Urology Practice Facebook Group link to join:https://www.facebook.com/groups/ThrivingPractice/    Join the discussion:Urology Coding and Reimbursement Group - Join for free and ask your questions, and share your wisdom.Click Here to Start Your Free Trial of AUACodingToday.com

Johnny details the harrowing experience of his cystoscopy. Then he needs backup on poutine being overrated. Andrew needs backup that it's unfair to the deceased to use DNA tests to discover their secrets. Enjoy! 

MSLC has adopted a new type of procedure called the Blue Light Cystoscopy. This procedure helps find bladder cancer tumors and Dr. Singh will explain how the procedure works and how to determine if one needs this procedure.

February 23, 2024Mark, Scott, and Ray discuss questions that came into the PRS Network: Regarding the most recent podcast episode on shard/split visits: Medicare's policy states that only one practitioner must have face-to-face time with the patient. In our practice the physician documents an addendum on the APP's note with the medical decision making portion of the visit. Per the episode, the physician must demonstrate involvement during the visit (not afterwards) in order to bill under the physician's NPI. Is there a guideline that states the physician must document their portion in real-time as the visit with the APP takes place? If they document the MDM portion of the visit in its entirety, isn't that enough to bill for the "substantive portion of MDM" as required by Medicare?For 52001, we commonly use this code for cysto and clot evacuation for gross hematuria under general anesthesia requiring rigid scope. Are physicians allowed to use this code for cystoscopy and irrigation of a clot with a syringe under local procedure or should they use 52000 + 57000?For 52281, does passage of the cystoscopy to dilate a narrowing in the urethra or meatus count? Or it is only meant to be used for cases where the meatus is cut or dilators or DVIU are used? Join the Documentation for Reimbursement Challenge - Starts 2/26/24Click Here for Information and to JoinPRS Billing and Other Services Click Here to Get More Information and Request a QuoteThe Thriving Urology Practice Facebook group.The Thriving Urology Practice Facebook Group link to join:https://www.facebook.com/groups/ThrivingPractice/ Join the discussion:Urology Coding and Reimbursement Group - Join for free and ask your questions, and share your wisdom.Click Here to Start Your Free Trial of AUACodingToday.com

Steven ‘Robbie' Burns, Watch Manager in the UKFRS shares his very personal cancer journey with cancer. In January of 2012, he first noticed blood in his urine. After a quick ‘Google' he reassured himself that this was due to the distance running. He ignored this first warning sign. Eight months on, Robbie experienced another episode. Upon consulting a different doctor, he was referred, on the same day where a Cystoscopy  revealed a huge, coral-like growth attached to  his bladder wall. He was told it was an aggressive cancer and that there would be a ‘journey' ahead.Link mentionedSNOMED CTWe only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY with every episode ever made & also get access to every Debrief & Subject Matter expert document shard with us then join our PATREON crew and support the future of the podcast by clicking HEREA big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyHAIX FootwearGRENADERIP INTOLyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and  for firefighters this cost lives, worsens our long term health and reduces cognitive ability.Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

In this episode, hosts Dr. Mark Hoffman and Dr. Amy Park invite Dr. Jocelyn Fitzgerald to discuss the relationships among chronic inflammatory pelvic diseases, focusing on painful bladder syndrome / interstitial cystitis (IC) and endometriosis. Dr. Fitzgerald is a urogynecologist at Magee Women's Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. --- SHOW NOTES The episode begins with Dr. Fitzgerald describing her pathway into urogynecology, including training with MIGS physicians. This allowed her to make the connection between many young, reproductive-aged women with painful urination who also have endometriosis. She then goes into how to define IC, which can be difficult. Officially, it is bothersome urinary symptoms lasting more than 6 weeks without other identifiable causes. It is almost always a diagnosis of exclusion after negative urine cultures and other tests. Cystoscopy is no longer needed for diagnosis as it is often normal. However, the best understood phenotype of IC is bladder-centric IC, and these have Hunter lesions seen with cystoscopy. This type responds very well to fulguration, Kenalog, or steroid injections with 85% of patients experiencing improvement. Dr. Fitzgerald further discusses treatments for IC. Behavior modification is essential, and she advises that patients avoid alcohol, coffee, tea, soda, spicy things, acidic things, and any other dietary triggers. She is also doing trials of giving patients an “IC bundle” which includes neurogenic medications like amitriptyline or gabapentin, vaginal estrogen, scheduled Pyridium, Hiprex, and aloe vera tablets. For some patients, she offers bladder instillations (comprised of heparin, lidocaine, bicarbonate, kenalog, +/- gentamicin), pelvic floor injections of bupivacaine and kenalog, and pelvic floor PT. Next, Dr. Fitzgerald discusses the basic science research she has done that connects pain pathways throughout the pelvis. Chronic pelvic inflammatory disorders cross-talk through central sensitization. The lumbosacral plexus nerve roots receive pain signals from the bladder, colon, and other pelvic organs, explaining the relationship between IBS, endometriosis, and IC. The pathways are well understood, but we don't yet know how to reverse central sensitization. Finally, Dr. Fitzgerald ends by describing the multidisciplinary clinic for endometriosis at Pittsburgh: MIGS, urogynecologists, pelvic floor PT, and behavioral health teams all work together to care for these complex patients holistically. She stresses the importance of teamwork and great administrators who have made this happen. She finishes by discussing how researching more about mast cells, especially through COVID patients, can help us learn more about these chronic inflammatory disorders of the pelvis. --- RESOURCES Fitzgerald JJ, Ustinova E, Koronowski KB, de Groat WC, Pezzone MA. Evidence for the role of mast cells in colon-bladder cross organ sensitization. Auton Neurosci. 2013 Jan;173(1-2):6-13. doi: 10.1016/j.autneu.2012.09.002. Epub 2012 Nov 24. PMID: 23182915; PMCID: PMC3715122. AUA Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of IC: https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/diagnosis-and-treatment-interstitial-of-cystitis/bladder-pain-syndrome-(2022)

This recording features audio versions of May 2023 Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (JVIR) abstracts:Embolization of the Superior Rectal Arteries versus Closed Hemorrhoidectomy (Ferguson Technique) in the Treatment of Hemorrhoidal Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial ReadOutcomes of Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization from a Multidisciplinary Outpatient Interventional Center ReadSafety and Effectiveness of Percutaneous Image-Guided Thermal Ablation of Juxtacardiac Lung Tumors ReadPercutaneous CT-Guided Cryoneurolysis of the Intercostobrachial Nerve for Management of Postmastectomy Pain Syndrome ReadDesign of a High-Flow Catheter Connector to Enhance Fluid Transfer ReadImaging-Guided De Novo Retrograde Ureteral Access and Stent Placement without Cystoscopy in Women Read JVIR and SIR thank all those who helped record this episode:Host and audio editor:Rommell Noche, Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, ConnecticutAbstract readers:Sarosh Din, William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine, MississippiYandry Varela, Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine, New MexicoJeremy Brown, MS, A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine, ArizonaSiddhi Hegde, MBBS, Massachusetts General HospitalAnna Hu, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, D.C.Joan Hwang, A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Arizona ©  Society of Interventional RadiologySupport the show

The Effect of Patient Positioning on Ureteral Efflux During Intraoperative Cystoscopy: a Randomized Controlled Trial w/ Dr. Sheena Galhotrahttps://www.jmig.org/article/S1553-4650(22)00363-6/fulltext 

Hey everyone!  Thanks for listening to Bladder Cancer Patient-to-Patient.  This episode discusses my experiences with blue light cystoscopy and how I've come to rely on this very valuable tool as a standard in my own care.  You'll hear about how I ended up having only blue light cystos, as well as what to expect; how they work; their cost and effectiveness, and why you should lobby for this relatively new technology.  As promised, the links I mentioned in this episode are listed below... Wishing you peace, health and happiness in the days ahead! Cindy **************** Blue Light Comparison Photos - https://bit.ly/3bONxO7 ... Bladder Cancer Matters Podcast with Dr. Yair Lotan - https://bit.ly/3yBdSID ... Bladder Cancer Summit for Patients & Families - Sep 30 to Oct 1, 2022 Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network - BCAN.org ***************** Please join my "Sharing is Caring" campaign to share a story from your bladder cancer journey.  You can leave me a voice mail by recording it on this link:  https://anchor.fm/cindy-lawson8/message Or just send me an email at bladdercancertalk@gmail.com.  Be sure to include some contact information in your voice mail or email so that I can reach out to you.  Sharing your story with other bladder cancer patients is a great way to support each other on this journey that we all travel together. Special thanks to ValleyGreenNaturals.com for sponsoring this episode of Bladder Cancer Patient-to-Patient and for making their fantastic, clean-ingredient personal care products available at a discount to our listeners! Use Promo Code "Healthy" for 15% off your first order! Just visit ValleyGreenNaturals.com. ******************* Disclaimer: THIS PODCAST IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A MEDICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR PHYSICIAN CARE, NOR TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY ILLNESS OR DISEASE. ALWAYS CONSULT WITH A PHYSICIAN FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. ******************* #bladdercancer #bluelightcystoscopy #cysview #cystoscopy #bladdercancerawareness #bladdercancertreatment #urology #bladdercancersymptoms #bladdercancersupport #cancerpatient #cancerpodcast #kickcancer #cancersucks #patientadvocacy #cancerresearch #survivorship #BCAN Search: bladder cancer, blue light cystoscopy, cysview, bladder cancer symptoms, bladder cancer awareness, bladder cancer treatment, diagnosing bladder cancer, urology, bladder cancer support, cancer patient, cancer podcast, kick cancer, cancer sucks, patient advocacy, cancer research, survivorship, signs of bladder cancer, symptoms of bladder cancer, symptoms of bladder cancer in women, causes of bladder cancer in women, smoking and bladder cancer, treatment for bladder cancer, diagnosing bladder cancer, TURBT, trans-urethral resection of bladder tumor, early diagnosis, bladder tumor recurrence, carcinoma in situ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cindy-lawson8/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cindy-lawson8/support

Join me as I recap the year of 2021. From the treatments I had to receive, to closing my business and a 30 day hospital stay. The lead up to 2021 has been a tough year. But we must stay positive and fight through it. Share your stories below!

Guest Panelist: Dr. Sonia Bahlani, Urogynecologist in New YorkThis week, the topic of discussion was: Chronic Pelvic Pain Endometriosis Interstitial Cystitis Cystoscopy Hernias Occult Inguinal Hernias Vulvodynia Vaginal Pain Pain with Intercourse Pelvic Floor Spasm Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Pudendal Neuralgia Laparoscopic Surgery Robotic Surgery Vaginal suppositories Rectal suppositories Valium - Muscle Relaxant Nerve Ablation Urogynecology Female UrologyHerniaTalk LIVE is a Q&A hosted by Dr. Shirin Towfigh, hernia and laparoscopic surgery specialist who practices at the Beverly Hills Hernia Center. This is the only Q&A of its kind, aimed at educating and empowering patients about all things related to hernias and hernia-related complications. For a personal consultation with Dr. Towfigh: +1-310-358-5020, info@beverlyhillsherniacenter.com.Follow Dr. Towfigh on the following platforms:Youtube | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

A storm dumped three to five inches of rain in the Detroit metro area one day in June 2021, and a major flood forced a Michigan urology clinic to close. Urologists with Henry Ford Health System were forced to quickly pivot and take all their patients coming in for clinic appointments and procedures and push them to a downtown Detroit campus. Single-use cystoscopy technology enabled them to do just that. Dr. Craig Rogers explains how in the latest episode of Endoscopy Insights. What happened is a testament to the power of new technology at a time when healthcare systems find themselves challenged on several fronts — clinical, financial, supply chain and logistics, even staffing. Show notes: Case Study: How This Urologist Kept Caring for Patients After His Clinic Flooded Bio: Dr. Craig Rogers Henry Ford Health System U.S. News: States With the Biggest Hospital Staffing Shortages Subscribe to Endoscopy Insights

Hey everyone, I'm sharing some very positive news in this podcast! After 4 1/2 years with multiple recurrences and 9 TURBT surgeries, I finally started on BCG. In this podcast, I'll explain why there was a delay with this important treatment and what my experience has been since starting it last fall. If you're on the fence about beginning BCG treatments, you'll want to hear about my personal experience in this podcast. I also discuss blue light cystoscopy and how it's not only becoming a standard of care among many urologists, but an absolute necessity in my book for those with multiple tumor recurrence or carcinoma in situ. So grab a cup of coffee and settle in as we learn from each other and travel this journey together! Wishing wellness for us all, Cindy P.S. If you'd like to be my guest on Bladder Cancer Patient-to-Patient, please click the voice mail link under one of my podcasts. You can leave me a message about your experiences, diagnosis, emotions, treatments... whatever you'd like to share with others. Interviews are done by phone and the magic of technology! So please reach out and leave me your contact information. I'd love to chat and maybe include your experience in an upcoming episode. Disclaimer: THIS PODCAST IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A MEDICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR PHYSICIAN CARE, NOR TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY ILLNESS OR DISEASE. ALWAYS CONSULT WITH A PHYSICIAN FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. #bladdercancer #bladdercancerawareness #bladdercancertreatment #urology #bladdercancersupport #cancerpatient #cancerpodcast #TURBT #BCG #kickcancer #cancersucks #patientadvocacy #cancerresearch #immunotherapy #survivorship Search: BCG intravesical treatment for bladder cancer, bacillus Calmette-Guerin, SWOG schedule, BCG treatments, benefits of BCG for bladder cancer, what is BCG --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cindy-lawson8/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cindy-lawson8/support

A micro-cost analysis published in Urology broke down per-procedural costs for cystoscopy and explored how single-use cystoscopes might provide a cost-effective option for providers. One of the authors of that study, Dr. Yair Lotan, is our guest on the newest episode of Endoscopy Insights and he walks us through his findings. Factors such as capital equipment costs, labor, and supply costs, as well as the number of procedures performed each year, impact the price of cystoscopy. Dr. Lotan is a urology professor and chief of urologic oncology at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas.

The dreaded Cystoscopy... Are you sweating your first cysto appointment? I hear you! It's an anxiety-producing process that had me trembling in my boots at the get-go. But honestly, it proved to be a piece o'cake. In this podcast, I describe my first cystoscopy experience, from the moment it was scheduled, to the day I got my results, and the entire process in between. I also discuss my experiences with blue light cystoscopy and what a valuable tool it has become for active bladder cancer patients. So... Grab a cup of coffee... Settle in... and learn what's it's like to look inside your own bladder! ;) My best wishes for wellness, Cindy Disclaimer: THIS PODCAST IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A MEDICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR PHYSICIAN CARE, NOR TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY ILLNESS OR DISEASE. ALWAYS CONSULT WITH A PHYSICIAN FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. #bladdercancer #bladdercancerawareness #bladdercancertreatment #urology #bladdercancersupport #cancerpatient #cancerpodcast #TURBT #BCG #kickcancer #cancersucks #patientadvocacy #cancerresearch #immunotherapy #survivorship Search: cystoscopy, blue light cystoscopy, bladder cancer diagnosis, tests for bladder cancer, cysview, TURBT, urothelial carcinoma, advancements in tumor detection, bladder carcinoma in situ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/cindy-lawson8/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/cindy-lawson8/support

Improving workflows to better meet your patients where they are — whether they find themselves in an ICU bed or at a satellite clinic — is something all patients and providers can be happy about. As we learn from two clinicians in this episode, when they have equipment that is portable, easily deployed, and does not require sterilization between uses, they can cut down on procedural delays.

November 15, 2021Mark, Ray, and Scott discuss some E&M 2021 FAQs.Is pyuria and hematuria 2 points or one? If it appears to be clearing, would it still be considered “with exacerbation”?Can a problem be considered chronic if you expect the problem will last >1 year or it is only considered chronic if the problem has existed for >1 year? If Medicare does not cover Bladder Scans for UTI would we count itIf the provider documents that he reviewed "records from the ER" then lists out imaging and documents a brief over view of what happened at the ER. Does this still count as 2 data points? Or would this be double dipping on the record review from the same entity?Cystoscopy are they counted as minor surgery or just data pointPlease explain what you meant when you said each cpt counts as one pointUrology Advanced Coding and Reimbursement SeminarREGISTRATION OPENLive In-Person EventsInformation and RegistrationLas Vegas, December 3-4, 2021New Orleans, January 28-29, 2022 Join the discussion:Urology Coding and Reimbursement Group - Join for free and ask your questions, and share your wisdom. Click Here to Start Your Free Trial of AUACodingToday.com 

A recent study conducted at Duke University Hospital and published in the Journal of Endourology found that a new single-use cystoscope demonstrated superior flexion and comparable optics to the reusable scopes already being used in a hospital urology department.  Dr. Michael Lipkin, a urologist in Durham, North Carolina, and one of the study's authors, joined Endoscopy Insights to discuss the findings. In our conversation, he talks about the key technological capabilities of the cystoscopes that he and his fellow researchers set out to assess, and other factors that impact the calculus of single-use vs. reusable. Lipkin also touches on a physician feedback survey that was done as part of the research and what his fellow urologists had to say, and other issues such as cost, infection prevention, and environmental factors.  

Here are my answers to the ten questions about the male urethral sling procedure. You can find more information at fixincontinence.com Connect with me at whyurologypodcast.com What is the diagnosis?             The diagnosis is urinary stress incontinence. A male urethral sling is placed for men with stress urinary incontinence, most often as a result of prostate removal for prostate cancer. Stress incontinence is leaking when a man coughs, sneezes, or lifts. Candidates for this type of surgery are generally men with mild to moderate leakage (1-4 pads daily). Ideally men considering a sling should also have good bladder function with a bladder capacity > 250 cc and no detrusor instability or overactive bladder. Cystoscopy is also performed prior to surgery to determine there is no bladder neck contracture or urethral strictures. Men must also be able to demonstrate urethral sphincter function either on urodynamics testing, starting and stopping midstream of micturition, or demonstration of urethral sphincter recruitment and closure on cystoscopy. Procedure description:  With a man in stirrups under spinal or general anesthesia, perineal incision is made below the scrotum and above the anus. The urethra is identified and mobilized to allow it to move when the sling is tensioned. Separate bilateral incisions in the inner thigh  are made and using a helical trocar the sling arms are brought from the perineal incision around the pelvic bones through the obturator fossa. The central portion of the mesh is fixed to the urethra and tensioning of the sling is done by pulling firmly on both arms of the sling. Cystoscopy is performed to confirm coaptation of the urethra. Once coaptation is confirmed, the wound is closed. Men spend one night in the hospital when I do the procedure with a catheter in place. The catheter is removed the next day and men are monitored to make sure they can urinat adequately after the procedure. Men must be able to pee the next day before discharge. Some men will need to go home with a catheter. What are the benefits of the procedure? The goal of the procedure is full continence or control of the urine. The male sling does not guarantee complete control. What are the drawbacks and risks of the procedure? As with any surgery there is a risk of infection, bleeding, anesthesia risk and of course the discomfort associated with surgery. These risks are relatively small for the urethral sling. I think the elephant in the room is that a man has a relatively high rate of leakage when compared with the artificial sphincter.  For men who do have continued leakage after a sling has been placed we can still place an artificial urinary sphincter at a later time. Obviously the goal is to get it right the first time, but it is important to know that it is not an either or proposition for men. Inability to urinate or urinary retention is also a risk if the sling ends up being too tight or causes too much restriction. Most often urine retention improves over time after the procedure but some men depend on intermittent catheterization after the procedure.             If the urethra is injured while placing the cuff, we need to stop the procedure and let that heal before attempting that again. That is rare but can occur. Also rare is a reaction to the mesh that would cause erosion or extrusion of the mesh.             Finally, over the long term, as our body tissues change some men will experience an increase in leaking years after the sling has been placed. Alternatives: Alternatives to the sling are continuing the use of the diapers or pads, using an external compression device on the penis such as a Cunningham clamp, biofeedback, and external catheterization such as a condom catheter. Several models from different manufacturers of the urethral sling exist. The artificial urinary sphincter is the alternative surgical approach. How common is this procedure? The male urethral sling is a common enough procedure. Most men who have had prostate removal do not need any surgery to help with urinary control or choose not to do any further treatment. But the number of surgeries done every year means there are enough men who have problems who need to have the sling placed. Why now or when should a man have the procedure? The timing of placing a male urethral sling is usually at least one year from the time of the prostatectomy. It takes time for some men to regain urinary control.  Most of you listening this far already know that you have continued problems with incontinence. You have tried Kegel exercises, biofeedback and possibly medication. You have also tried the external compression devices and the urinary pads, and you are looking for a definitive solution. As I have said before if you are a man considering this procedure take your time making this decision. Preparing for the procedure: Normal recommendations for prior to any surgery Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the procedure.             You should take your usual medications as you normally would the morning of your procedure with a small sip of water or clear liquid only (avoid juice, milk, coffee). Starting 5 to 10 days prior to your procedure (ask your doctor for a specific time), it is important to stop taking medications that might increase your risk of bleeding. For a list of blood-thinning medications that should be avoided. Preparing your skin by washing with antibacterial soap or Hibiclens for a week prior to surgery will help decrease ethe bacterial count on your skin to help with infection.         Have a driver and know the route the hospital, how you will get home, and bow will take care of you when you do get home. After the procedure: You will stay the night in the hospital. Pain is controlled, you will eat a normal diet and begin to walk around after surgery right away. We leave a catheter in overnight and remove the next day. One of the critical steps when removing the catheter is making sure a man can void after the procedure. There is some risk of retention. If you need a catheter when you go home we will decide when to remove it at that time. You will go home on antibiotics. Take the complete course of antibiotics prescribed unless you have a reaction to the medicine. I usually will have an appt with you 2 weeks after the operation. Here is the critical, critical thing. Plan to do only light duty and limited activity for at least six weeks after surgery. The sling can move in position with too much lifting, bending, straining. It heals into place and the body fixes it in position but it takes a while to do. One of the big advantages of this surgery is the small incision we make, but this means that we aren't sewing the sling to bone or other structures to fix it in place. Your body must do that. That takes time. Insurance coverage: Yes, there is usually good insurance coverage for this procedure. There is a prior authorization process, and our business office will help guide you. Know that you have coverage for this procedure before you get to the hospital on the day of surgery. You don't want to have to sort through the billing issues after the procedure

In Episode 11 of Bladder Cancer Matters, Rick Bangs's special guest is Yair Lotan, M.D., a Professor of Urology and the Chief of Urologic Oncology, at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He is also the Medical Director of the Urology Clinic at UT Southwestern and Parkland Health and Hospital System.  Dr. Lotan also serves on BCAN's Scientific Advisory Board. Rick and Dr. Lotan discuss:   When do urologists use a cystoscopy and why? What are the different types of light used in a cystoscopy, like white light, blue light and narrow band imaging? Is there anything that urologists can do to ease the discomfort of a cystoscopy? What is an enhanced cystoscopy? Should I shop around for different types of imaging?  

This week Ruben tells the guys about his Cystoscopy procedure and Steven gets ejaculated on by a puppy. Enjoy the show! If you want to follow us or send us a message you can reach us at Instagram: @diktokpodcast Email: diktokpod@gmail.com Twitter: @diktokpodcast

Thanks for tuning in to the Armor Men's Health Hour Podcast today, where we bring you the latest and greatest in urology care and the best urology humor out there.In this segment, Dr. Mistry and Donna Lee discuss the often dreaded cystoscopy. Urologists use this procedure to examine the inside of the bladder by inserting a very small and well lubricated camera into the urethra. While many patients are understandably worried about pain and discomfort during a cystoscopy, Dr. Mistry and his team at NAU Urology Specialists know how to make it as relaxing and pain-free as possible! From the use of prescription Valium (when patients bring a driver to their appointment) to the calming use of deep breaths and distraction techniques, this important and sometimes life-saving look into the bladder will be over before you know it! There is no better way to detect bladder cancer, so if your urologist recommends getting a cystoscopy, we recommend you do, too! Learn more about our award winning podcast at: https://blog.feedspot.com/mens_health_podcasts/ If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share us with a friend! As always, be well!Dr. Mistry is a board-certified urologist and has been treating patients in the Austin and Greater Williamson County area since he started his private practice in 2007.We enjoy hearing from you! Email us at armormenshealth@gmail.com and we'll answer your question in an upcoming episode!Phone: (512) 238-0762Email: Armormenshealth@gmail.comWebsite: Armormenshealth.comOur Locations:Round Rock Office970 Hester's Crossing Road Suite 101 Round Rock, TX 78681South Austin Office6501 South Congress Suite 1-103 Austin, TX 78745Lakeline Office12505 Hymeadow Drive Suite 2C Austin, TX 78750Dripping Springs Office170 Benney Lane Suite 202 Dripping Springs, TX 78620

On this episode of the Bladder Battle Podcast, brand new special series "Flarey Tales," host Lauren Wion has Suzy Hutchins join in on the show to share her personal journey with Interstitial Cystitis. from diagnosis to treatment and the negative and positive affects the illness has had on her life. In addition, they compare some similarities and differences in medical care and treatments between the U.S. and the U.K.The series "Flarey Tales" gives those living with the chronic illness an opportunity to share their stories and provide support to other ICers out there, showing we are not alone in this!DISCLAIMER: THIS PODCAST IS NOT INTENDED TO BE A MEDICAL ALTERNATIVE FOR PHYSICIAN CARE NOR TO TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY ILLNESS OR DISEASE. ALWAYS CONSULT WITH A PHYSICIAN FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE.

Dr Eugene Rajaratnam explains the Cystoscopy procedure and what to expect, the pictures you see are a view from the scoping part of the procedure allowing us to find any obstructions or problems and then we can go back in and fix them.

Mask use during cystoscopy and tonsillectomy procedures by AORNJournal

A cystoscopy is a procedure that lets a urologist view the inside of the bladder and urethra in detail. Learn more on today's episode of the Urology Care Podcast with Dr. Julie Riley. Dr. Riley is an assistant professor and the Director of Endourology, and Director of Urologic Research at the University of New Mexico.

DC opens the show and bitches about what a terrible weekend he's had to deal with. 10:00- La..La..Mamba! 27:45- The less shoes remaining on feet - the better the video. 38:30- Cringy Bryant 58:00- KC and the Ultrasoundians 1:12:30- Praises of the Dear Leaders are Sangt + Responses 1:36:30- KC's continuing crusades into medical maladies. Having settled the month of January, the guys close out the podcast and do it, as always, like Goddamn Gentlemen!

Adding color can make all the difference in one test. KYW Newsradio's Lynne Adkins talked about the advancement in cystoscopy with Dr. Jamison Jaffe, chief of urology at St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne.

Dr. Nancy Chescheir, Editor-in-Chief, and Dr. John Fischer, Web Editor, review the articles that have been designated as Editors’ Picks for the May 2019 issue (Cystoscopy at the Time of Hysterectomy for Benign Indications and Delayed Lower Genitourinary Tract Injury; Herbal Medicinal Product Use During Pregnancy and the Postnatal Period: A Systematic Review; Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Prenatal Insomnia: A Randomized Controlled Trial). This podcast features an interview with Dr. Emma Barber, corresponding author of the article on cystoscopy.

In a twisted kind of way, I rather enjoyed it. #medical #healthcare #cystoscopy #doctor #procedures #movies #FantasticVoyage #60s #1960s #RaquelWelch #science #sciencefiction #humanbody #malehealth #prostate #prostatiti #urology #health #hyperplasia #technology #medicaltechnology

Hi, I'm standup comedian Jason Cole and I just TALKED SHIT ABOUT: doing a 35 minute headlining set, being mistaken for gay, and my trip to Kaiser to have a camera* stuck into my cock (Cystoscopy). *Very long camera Please enjoy, rate/comment, share, and SUBSCRIBE, for weekly episodes of true greatness, unparalleled humor, and spiritual inspiration.   Twitter: @ThatsNotGravy Instagram: @thats_not_gravy

"Smile You're on Bladder Camera! (Cystoscopy)" with Dr. Melanie Crites-Bachert, DO, FACOS, FACS, of the 360 Pelvic Health Institute, a division of The Center for Men's and Women's Urology (360phi.com, 1uro.com) Copyright 2019 all rights reserved.

"Smile You’re on Bladder Camera! (Cystoscopy)" with Dr. Melanie Crites-Bachert, DO, FACOS, FACS, of the 360 Pelvic Health Institute, a division of The Center for Men's and Women's Urology (360phi.com, 1uro.com) Copyright 2019 all rights reserved.

November is National Bladder Health Awareness Month.  According to the Urology Care Foundation the cost of treating bladder problems in the United States is 70 Billion dollars annually. Nursing home costs due to urinary incontinence are estimated at 6 billion dollars annually.  Urinary tract infections create more than 8 million doctor visits every year (5.3 of those 8 million visits are women with infections, 1.3 and 1.2 of those 8 million are children and men respectively). Millions of Americans have neurogenic bladder – a lack of bladder control due to a brain, spinal cord or other nerve problem such as spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, stroke, spina bifida, or nerve problems caused by diabetes or major pelvic surgery. An estimated 33 million adults in the U.S. may have overactive bladder. As if that weren't enough, here is a humbling statistic. More than 1 in 10 military service members injured in Afghanistan and Iraq have urologic trauma injuries, damaging the urinary tract or reproductive organs. In preparation for National Bladder Health Awareness Month today we are going to talk about bladder cancer. Although it doesn't make the newspapers much bladder cancer is the 5th most common non-skin cancer in the United States. It is the 4th most common cancer diagnosed in men and by the Veterans Affairs Health System. Nearly 600,000 Americans live with bladder cancer today and 75-80,000 people will be diagnosed in the United States with bladder cancer this year. An estimated 16-17,00 people will die from bladder cancer this year. According to the American Cancer Society bladder cancer is more common as a person grows older. 90% of patients with a new diagnosis of bladder cancer are over age 55, with the average age at diagnosis being 73 years old. Bladder cancer is three times more common in males than females. Whites are diagnosed with bladder cancer about twice as often as African or Hispanic Americans, but African-Americans present more commonly with advanced disease.   You are at risk for bladder cancer if you are over 55 years of age and you have one of the following five risk factors: 1. You smoke tobacco, either in the past or currently. Smoking tobacco may be the cause of half of all bladder tumors. If you need another reason to stop smoking if you are a smoker, please add bladder cancer to your list, 2. You are at risk for bladder cancer if you are exposed to chemicals in the workplace used to make plastics, paints, textiles, leather and rubber, 3. you have had prior pelvic radiation, 4. you have chronic urinary tract infections associated with neurologic disease and chronic catheterization and less commonly 5. you are a patient taking some medications linked with increasing bladder cancer risk such as the chemotherapy cyclophosphamide, the diabetes drug Actos, or dietary supplements containing aristolochic acid (mainly in herbs from the Aristolochia family). I have recently diagnosed patients with bladder cancer without significant risk factors other than age and gender. One gentleman I saw recently had come in for a routine follow up appointment for his enlarged prostate and elevated PSA number.  The day before his appointment, however, he had seen blood in his urine and mentioned it casually at the end of his appt. He was having no other symptoms. Urologists take blood in the urine very seriously.  Blood in the urine is the most common symptom of bladder cancer. When bleeding occurs because of bladder cancer it is generally painless, and is seen in the entire urine stream. If you see blood in your urine you should tell a healthcare provider so they can refer you to a urologist. Even if the blood goes away, you should still talk to your doctor about it. When you see blood in the urine, it is called "gross hematuria." Often, however, you cannot see the blood in your urine but it is detected by the laboratory with a microscope during routine checks of the urine such as during an annual physical exam. A very small amount of blood might be normal in some people and not lead to a medical condition, but ALL patients require evaluation when the amount of blood detected on the urinalysis is more than just a trace amount. Blood in the urine does not always mean that you have bladder cancer either. There are a number of other more common reasons why you may have blood in your urine: urinary tract infection, enlarged prostate or prostate infection, kidney or bladder stones, kidney disease, kidney trauma, or kidney cancer, blood thinning drugs and even a tough workout (what we call runner's hematuria) can cause blood in the urine. When blood is found in the urine, even if it's a small amount, you need to make sure there is not a tumor in the kidney or bladder, or a kidney stone or infection. We have to evaluate the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and the urethra to try to identify a source for the bleeding. A CT scan or ultrasound is ordered to look at the kidneys and ureters, with a CT scan with and without IV contrast dye being the recommended test in most cases. We can run a urine cytology or other bladder tests on the urine to see if there are changes that would indicate bladder cancer. But to evaluate specifically for bladder cancer, unfortunately, the best test is to actually look inside the bladder with a scope. We have to perform a cystoscopy, a procedure to look inside the bladder. A cystoscope is a thin flexible instrument that has a light and camera or fiberoptics at the end of it allowing us to see directly inside the bladder. To get into the bladder we have to pass the cystoscope through the urethra. Cystoscopy is done as an outpatient procedure in the clinic. The average cystoscopy takes just a minute or two. As you would expect the procedure is uncomfortable, and carries with it a small risk of infection from the introduction of the scope into the bladder. A cystoscopy is the most common procedure done in our office. There are many reasons we perform cystoscopy, to rule out cancer of course but also to evaluate the urethra, prostate, and bladder anatomy. Other symptoms of bladder cancer as well as many other urologic problems may include changes in urination. Frequent urination or pain when you pass urine called dysuria are less common symptoms of bladder cancer and often indicate other problems such as infection or overactive bladder. But to evaluate these symptoms more completely we will often perform cystoscopy, even if cancer is not suspected. Cancer is when your body cells grow out of control when the normal DNA instructions for cell growth are disrupted. Most cancers form a lump called a tumor. In the case of bladder cancer that growth occurs inside the bladder and we can visualize it directly with the scope. A review of anatomy is appropriate. The bladder is a hollow organ in the pelvis with flexible, muscular walls. The bladder is where the body stores urine before it leaves the body. The bladder can get bigger or smaller as it fills with urine and empties. When you go to the bathroom, the muscles in your bladder will contract. They then push urine out through a tube called the urethra. In addition to the muscular layer of the bladder the bladder wall has other layers, made up of different types of cells.  The inner lining is called urothelium lined by a special type of cells called transitional cells. Transitional cells are designed to make a transition are able to change shape from very bunched up and contracted when the bladder is empty to being very stretched out and thin when the bladder is full.  In a word, they “transition.” Because most bladder cancers start in the urothelium or transitional epithelium, bladder cancer is often called transitional cell carcinoma. Other types of bladder cancer exist but are much less common and include squamous cell carcinoma (cancer that begins in thin, flat cells lining the bladder) and adenocarcinoma (cancer that begins in cells that make and release mucus and other fluids). Transitional cell carcinomas grow typically as a polypoid growth, with a stalk and are referred to as being papillary. A person with bladder cancer will have one or more tumors in the lining of the bladder that, if I would have to describe it, appear like mini cauliflower floret, or like a sea coral waving from the ocean floor. Bladder cancers attach to the bladder wall on the lining or the surface. That is called a non-invasive tumor. As the polyp grows it can begin to invade through the top most part, the transitional epithelium to the layers underneath. Bladder cancer gets worse when it grows into or through other layers of the bladder wall. The first layer it invades is a connective layer called the lamina propria. If the cancer begins to invade into the lamina propria layer it becomes a stage 1 cancer. If the cancer is just on the surface it is not considered a stage 1 cancer but rather is referred to as superficial or a stage A cancer. Underneath the lamina propria is a muscle layer called the detrusor muscle. When the tumor reaches the muscle layer it becomes a stage 2 cancer and has a much higher chance of spreading. Beyond the muscle is the fatty connective tissue holding the bladder in place. If the cancer reaches that level it becomes a stage 3 caner. Over time, the cancer becomes a stage 4 bladder cancer grows outside the bladder into tissues close by. Bladder cancer may spread to lymph nodes, lungs, liver, bones and other parts of the body. Stage 2, 3, and 4 cancers require more surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Superficial and Stage 1 tumors may need more surgery or treatments instilled into the bladder. When we look inside a bladder and see a tumor or growth we can't officially call it a cancer until we have a biopsy. Diagnosis of bladder cancer is confirmed and staged most commonly during a transurethral resection of a bladder tumor (TURBT).  For many patients, the resection of the bladder tumor will be the only treatment they need. The tumor is resected under anesthesia in the hospital or surgery center.  A scope is placed in the bladder that has a working element that can cut the tumor off of the surface of the bladder. At this time, your doctor will stage your cancer and try to cut it away completely to get rid of the cancer. The surgeon will resect or remove all of the visible tumor if possible and send the biopsy to a pathologist who will review the specimen and assign it a stage and grade. What is left in the bladder can best be described as a divot, much like a golfer leaves his mark on the fairway, because the urologist has to get deep enough to cut the tumor completely out if possible. The bladder heals very fast, relining itself quickly with healthy urothelium. Grade and stage describe a cancer's development and guide future treatment. A tumor grade tells how aggressive the cancer cells are. A tumor stage tells how much the cancer has spread. We have already reviewed the tumor stages above. The pathologist will review the specimen and also assign a grade to the cancer. Tumors can be low or high grade. High-grade tumor cells are very abnormal, poorly organized and tend to be more serious, faster growing cells that are more likely to recur after they are removed and to invade the other layers of the bladder. A low-grade tumor has cells that are abnormal, but less aggressive looking and more uniform in character. They tend to behave less aggressively in terms of putting patients at risk for recurrence or invasion to other layers of the bladder. As I said before many patients are treated with simple resection of the bladder tumor. If the bladder cancer is superficial and low grade the treatment is most often just the removal and routine follow-up cystoscopy in the office. 50% of bladder cancers will recur. Just like dandelions in the yard, the seeds for next year's growth may lie somewhere else in the bladder already at the time of removal.  Careful follow-up is critical to finding tumors early if they recur and treating them before they advance. Routine cystoscopy is initially performed usually on a 3 months basis to make sure we catch bladder cancers early, increasing that interval as appropriate. Our story today ends on a happy note. My patient with the blood in his urine fortuitously just one day prior to his routine f/u with me had superficial bladder cancer and I was able to remove it during the transurethral resection of his bladder tumor. Although he doesn't need further treatment at this time we will need to follow him carefully because of the high rate of recurrence of tumors. Although we don't hear much about bladder cancer, it is a very common disease. Fortunately, many patients can simply have a procedure done in the hospital without further treatment. For patients needing more treatment we will have the opportunity to talk about other options for more aggressive tumors in future episodes. Let me leave you with this thought. It's best to just not get bladder cancer in the first place. There are risk factors that we can't do anything about but the biggest risk factor for bladder cancer is smoking. If you are smoker quit today.