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Treatment of bladder cancer

Urinary diversions

Urinary diversion is a surgery to create a new way for urine to leave the body when the bladder is removed. This guide explains the different types of diversions and what to expect.

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Bladder cancerTreatment of bladder cancer

After your bladder is removed (cystectomy), you will need a new way to hold and pass urine because you won’t have a bladder anymore. To do this, your surgeon will create a urinary diversion.

There are three main types of urinary diversions:

  • The ileal conduit (with a small opening on the skin called a stoma).
  • The neobladder (a new bladder made from a piece of your intestine that holds urine inside).
  • Rerouting the ureters (the tubes that carry urine from your kidneys to your bladder) through the skin. 

Questions to ask you doctor

Asking your doctor about urinary diversions helps you understand your options and what to expect after surgery. It helps you prepare for changes in your daily life, learn how to take care of your new way of passing urine, and make the best choice for your health. It also gives you a chance to talk about any concerns and find out what support is available to help you adjust.

Here are some questions to ask your doctor about urinary diversions:

  • Which type of urinary diversion is best for me?
  • What are the good and bad sides of each option?
  • How will this change my daily life?
  • Will I need to wear a bag to collect urine?
  • How do I take care of my stoma or neobladder?
  • Will I be able to control when I urinate?
  • What problems or risks should I know about?
  • How long will it take to heal after surgery?
  • Will I need any other treatments or check-ups?
  • How will this affect my sex life and physical activities?
  • Can I talk to other people who have had this surgery?
  • Where can I get help if I have trouble adjusting?

Support

Life with a urinary diversion can feel daunting. It is vital that you have somewhere to turn for reassurance and advice, from diagnosis to living life to the full again. The Urostomy Association can give you that support.

This chapter contains general information about urinary diversions. If you have any specific questions about your own medical situation you should consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider. No website or leaflet can replace a personal conversation with your doctor.

Last updated: March 2025

Other possible treatments

Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour (TURBT)Removal of the bladder (cystectomy)Urinary diversions

Situations

Treatment of bladder cancer

Condition

Bladder cancerAll conditions
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