Genitourinary Cancer Diagnostic and Treatment Options

The Genitourinary Multidisciplinary Clinic at the Lifespan Cancer Institute provides care ranging from the screening of high-risk individuals, to the most innovative treatments, including advanced radiation oncology services, robotic surgery, and access to investigational therapies.

Services offered at the Genitourinary Multidisciplinary Clinic include:

• one-time consultation, evaluation and second opinions
• screening and diagnostic tests
• medical oncology
• technical and surgical services including robotic prostatectomy offered via the Minimally Invasive Urology Institute (MIUI) at The Miriam Hospital
• sophisticated radiation oncology services
• comprehensive complementary services, including nutrition consultation, social work, physical therapy, patient education resources and support groups

The Miriam Hospital is one of only three hospitals in New England to offer blue-light cystoscopy, a minimally invasive, leading-edge technology that improves bladder cancer detection.

Cancer of the urinary bladder (bladder cancer) is the fifth most common cancer in Rhode Island. Early detection of bladder cancer increases the chances of successful treatment. One way bladder cancer can be identified is by using cystoscopy. During a cystoscopy, the patient is sedated and the physician is able enter the bladder without making any incision and inspect the lining closely for any abnormal growths or suspicious areas that may indicate bladder cancer.

How It Works

A solution is delivered into the patient's bladder about an hour before the blue-light cystoscopy procedure. During the procedure, the doctor inserts a long thin tube and uses white light to examine the bladder, and then switches to blue-light. When the equipment is switched to blue-light mode, other hard-to-see tumors that may be present become more visible. These tumors stand out against the normal bladder tissue, making it easier for doctors to identify and remove them.