Last Wednesday (May 10, 2023) Dr. Armine Smith of the Greenberg Bladder Cancer Institute at Johns Hopkins Medicine presented a webinar on “Minimizing Bladder Cancer’s Impact: Organ Preservation in Male/Female Cystectomy” via Zoom. I attended the session and it was very worthwhile, especially the Q&A. Dr. Smith presented what any doctor might say frankly about the topic, neither “dummying the material down” nor making it impossible for a layperson to understand.
Dr. Smith’s presentation began with an overview of the male and female genito-urinary anatomy and physiology followed by an explanation of the grading and staging of bladder cancers. From there, she talked about the different types of cancers of the bladder, and types of treatment (e.g., TURBT immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation and the role of nanoparticles in fighting cancer.) But the heart of the lesson dealt with radical cystectomies, from the perspective of male patients and the post op issues facing female patients as well.
Johns Hopkins has made the broadcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mR8UfzpgvoA.
Those who may be thinking about a second opinion for their bladder cancer may reach Dr. Smith and the Greenberg Bladder Cancer Institute team at bladdercancer@jhmi.edu. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Armine Smith, call 410-955-6100.