Variation in Follow-Up after Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer-An Inventory Roundtable and Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Oncology
• Bladder Cancer Management

Background:

• Post-radical cystectomy (RC) care involves oncological and functional surveillance.
• Optimal scheduling for follow-up after RC remains undefined.
• This study investigated current follow-up practices in Europe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gain insight into the organization of follow-up care after radical cystectomy (RC) in Europe.
• To identify variations in follow-up protocols among European urologists.
• To inform the development of standardized follow-up strategies.

Main Methods:

• A semi-structured survey was conducted among urologists in the EAU Young Academic Urologists Urothelial Cancer working group.
• The survey focused on describing the organization of post-RC follow-up.
• Data were analyzed using a deductive approach to identify similarities and differences.

Main Results:

• Eleven urologists from six European countries participated.
• Follow-up schemes varied, with institutional protocols (55%) being most common.
• Significant divergence noted in timing, frequency, and duration of follow-up; risk-adapted approaches used by 55%; patient-reported outcomes underutilized (18%).

Conclusions:

• Substantial variability exists in bladder cancer follow-up protocols after radical cystectomy across European centers.
• There is a clear need for international analysis to standardize and improve follow-up content and organization.
• Improving patient-centered care during the follow-up period is essential.