A bladder polyp is a tumour or growth in the bladder wall. This tumour can be superficial or invasive. A superficial tumour does not grow into the muscle wall, whereas an invasive tumour does.
A bladder polyp should always be removed because it can grow, bleed or continue to grow through the muscle wall of the bladder. In addition, it will be possible to investigate whether the tumour is superficial or invasive by removal. This is, in fact, very important for the further course of the treatment.
It is possible for polyps to recur, so the urologist will regularly check your bladder through a visual examination or cystoscopy. In all cases of bladder tumours, you will be advised to stop smoking, as this reduces the risk of recurrence. Additional treatment may be required to further prevent the risk of recurrence and damage to the deeper muscle layer. This treatment usually consists of one or more bladder washouts (or bladder instillations) and is carried out during the consultation.
Your treating doctor will discuss the treatment options with you in detail.
