Optimizing Nutritional Status in Patients Undergoing Radical Cystectomy: A Systematic Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Nutrition
• Urology

Background:

• Nutrition is a key factor in cancer care, impacting outcomes for patients undergoing oncologic interventions.
• Malnutrition in patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer is linked to increased postoperative complications and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and characterize the role of nutritional interventions for patients undergoing RC for bladder cancer.

Main Methods:

• A systematic scoping review following PRISMA-ScR guidelines was conducted.
• Searches identified clinical trials on nutritional interventions for bladder cancer patients undergoing RC.
• Articles were independently reviewed for inclusion/exclusion based on predefined criteria.

Main Results:

• Out of 83 identified articles, 17 were included in the final analysis.
• Data on nutritional screening, assessment, and intervention for RC patients are limited.
• While parenteral nutrition may increase complications, early enteral feeding and immunonutrition with high protein show promise for optimizing surgical outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Despite established consequences of malnutrition in RC patients, evidence for nutritional interventions is scarce.
• Further clinical trials are essential to evaluate and optimize nutritional strategies for this patient population.