This study has the potential to expand the number of patients who can benefit from organ-sparing therapy,” said Thomas W. Flaig, MD, Associate Professor in the Division of Medical Oncology at the University of Colorado Denver, commenting on the pooled analysis of RTOG 9906 and 0233 presented at the Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. “This is an important question that comes up in clinical practice. Even though we have good options such as the creation of a surgical neobladder for select patients once their bladders are removed, it is a very important decision for patients to remove the bladder,” he noted.

“This study provides a rationale for continuing with organ-sparing therapy in patients with near-complete response, who are now frequently on their way to having their bladders removed. The study gives us new information to discuss with patients when making this decision. The decision should be individualized from patient to patient,” Dr. Flaig commented. ■

Disclosure: Dr. Flaig reported no potential conflicts of interest.