Does urethral cancer always require removal of the urethra?

 

Urethral cancer does not always require complete removal of the urethra. Many people assume that because the urethra is a narrow tube, cancer automatically leads to major surgery, but that is not true in every case. According to experts and experienced urethral cancer doctor Delhi specialists, treatment depends on the tumor’s size, location, depth of spread, grade of cancer, and the patient’s overall health. When detected early, many tumors can be removed or treated without sacrificing the entire urethra. Organ-preserving options such as endoscopic removal, laser therapy, radiation, or partial surgery are often enough. Complete removal of the urethra—called urethrectomy—is considered only when the cancer is advanced, aggressive, or has spread to surrounding tissues. With modern technology, especially robotic surgery, doctors are able to remove tumors precisely while protecting nearby structures and maintaining urinary function.

When full removal is NOT needed

• Early or surface-level tumors can be treated with minor surgery.

• Laser or endoscopic techniques remove small tumors without damaging the urethra.

• Radiation therapy can shrink or destroy cancer cells while keeping the passage open.

• Partial urethrectomy removes only the affected portion.

• Combination therapy (chemo + radiation) can control deeper tumors.

When complete removal becomes necessary

• The tumor is large or growing aggressively.

• Cancer has spread deep into tissues or nearby organs.

• The tumor returns even after earlier treatment.

• Clear surgical margins cannot be achieved with limited surgery.

• Long-term cure requires total removal for safety.

Why doctors recommend complete removal in some cases

Doctors suggest removing the entire urethra only when it offers the best chance of survival and prevents the cancer from returning. Leaving behind even a small portion of aggressive or deep cancer can allow it to spread to the bladder, prostate, or lymph nodes. In men, tumors involving the deeper segment of the urethra or close to the prostate may need more extensive surgery. In women, when cancer affects tissues near the vagina or pelvic floor, removal prevents further spread. The goal is not just removing the visible tumor, but ensuring that no cancer cells remain. Experienced surgeons, including Sr Urethral Oncology Doctor RGCIRC, often evaluate scans, biopsies, and tumor behavior before recommending total removal. While it may sound overwhelming, the decision is made to protect long-term safety and survival.

Life after surgery and the importance of early diagnosis

Even when complete removal is required, life does not become non-functional. Surgeons can reconstruct a new passage or design urinary diversion so patients continue to pass urine comfortably. Many people return to normal routines after recovery. Robotic and advanced surgical techniques have reduced pain, blood loss, and hospital stay. Still, the best chance of avoiding major surgery comes with early diagnosis. Symptoms like blood in urine, frequent UTIs, pain while urinating, difficulty passing urine, or a lump near the urethral opening should not be ignored. When such symptoms persist, consulting a urologist or uro-oncologist is essential. In summary, urethral cancer does not always require removal of the urethra. Many patients are treated successfully with organ-preserving approaches, and complete removal is recommended only when it offers the safest and most effective long-term result.