Current practice in the management of superficial bladder cancer in the Netherlands and Belgian Flanders: a survey
Authors:
J. A. Witjes; D. O. T. M. Melissen; L. A. L. M. Kiemeney
Published in:
Urol List 2008; 6(2): 9-15
Overview
Objective.
Because there is no national guideline for the diagnosis, therapy and follow up of (superficial) bladder cancer in the Netherlands and Belgium, the actual patient management may differ between urologists. The purpose of this study is to get insight in the current way urologists diagnose, treat and follow patients with superficial bladder cancer.
Methods.
All practising urologists in the Netherlands (n = 293) and Flemish speaking Belgium (Flanders, n = 223) received a questionnaire with regard to the current management of patients with superficial bladder cancer. The results were compared with the guidelines provided by the European Association of Urology (EAU). Also a comparison was made between the two countries and between university and community hospitals.
Results.
The results show a wide variation in current practice for superficial bladder cancer. Although the majority of urologists do not follow the EAU guidelines, current practice roughly matches these guidelines. There are no major differences between the two countries or between different types of hospitals. Discrepancies between current practice and guidelines are mostly too frequent use of techniques for the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.
Conclusion.
In all, there is a need for clear guidelines in superficial bladder cancer and an effective implementation of such guidelines into everyday practice.
Key words.
bladder cancer, diagnosis, therapy, follow up, survey
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Paediatric urologist UrologyArticle was published in
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