Comparison of urological outcomes and quality of life after pelvic exenteration: partial vs radical cystectomy

Objective To compare perioperative morbidity, functional and quality‐of‐life (QoL) outcomes in patients with partial cystectomy vs radical cystectomy as part of pelvic exenteration. Patients and Methods Retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database of pelvic exenteration patients (1998–2021) was conducted in a single centre. Study outcomes included postoperative complications, quality‐of‐life, functional and stoma‐related outcomes. The 36‐item Short‐Form Health Survey Physical and Mental Health Components, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Colorectal questionnaires and Distress Thermometer were available pre‐ and postoperatively. QoL outcomes were compared at the various time points. Stoma embarrassment and care scores were compared between patients with a colostomy, urostomy, and both. Results Urological complications were similar between both groups, but patients with partial cystectomy experienced less wound‐related complications. Overall, 34/81 (42%) partial cystectomy patients reported one or more long‐term voiding complication (i.e., incontinence [17 patients], frequency [six], retention [three], high post‐voiding residuals [10], permanent suprapubic catheter/indwelling catheter [14], recurrent urinary tract infection [nine], percutaneous nephrostomy [three], progression to urostomy [three]). The QoL improved following surgery in both the partial and radical cystectomy groups, differences between cohorts were not significant. Patients with two stomas reported higher embarrassment scores than patients with one stoma, although this did not result in more difficulties in stoma care. Conclusions Partial cystectomy patients have fewer postoperative wound‐related complications than radical cystectomy patients, but often experience long‐term voiding issues. The QoL outcomes are similar for both cohorts, with significant improvement following surgery.