Groundbreaking Blue Light Tech Boosts Bladder Cancer Detection at St. John's Hospital
St. John’s Hospital Leads the Way in Early Bladder Cancer Detection with Cutting-Edge Blue Light Technology
HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois, is making significant strides in the fight against bladder cancer, pioneering a revolutionary procedure that utilises blue light technology. This innovative technique is dramatically improving the detection of cancerous cells during cystoscopies, offering patients a greater chance of successful treatment and improved outcomes.
What is Blue Light Cystoscopy?
Traditional cystoscopies, a common procedure to examine the bladder, can sometimes miss early-stage bladder cancer. The procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera into the bladder. However, early cancerous lesions can be difficult to distinguish from normal tissue under standard white light. This is where blue light cystoscopy comes in.
Blue light cystoscopy employs a special blue light that causes cancerous cells to fluoresce, or glow, making them much easier to identify against the darker background of healthy tissue. A special filter is then used to view these glowing areas, highlighting potential areas of concern for the urologist.
Why is this a Game-Changer?
The benefits of blue light cystoscopy are substantial. Studies have shown that this technology significantly increases the detection rate of early-stage bladder cancer compared to white light cystoscopy alone. This means that more cancers are identified at a stage when they are more treatable and curable.
“We’re incredibly excited to offer this advanced technology to our patients,” says Dr. [Insert Doctor's Name - if available, otherwise remove], a urologist at HSHS St. John’s Hospital. “Early detection is key in bladder cancer treatment, and blue light cystoscopy gives us a critical advantage in identifying and addressing the disease at its earliest stages.”
What to Expect During the Procedure
The blue light cystoscopy procedure is similar to a traditional cystoscopy and is typically performed in an outpatient setting. Patients usually receive local anaesthesia to numb the urethra. The procedure itself takes approximately the same amount of time as a standard cystoscopy.
Who is a Candidate for Blue Light Cystoscopy?
Blue light cystoscopy is particularly beneficial for patients with a history of bladder cancer or those at high risk of developing the disease. It is also recommended for patients undergoing surveillance after bladder cancer treatment to monitor for recurrence.
HSHS St. John’s Hospital: Committed to Innovation in Cancer Care
HSHS St. John’s Hospital is dedicated to providing patients with access to the most advanced and innovative cancer care technologies. The implementation of blue light cystoscopy is just one example of the hospital's commitment to improving patient outcomes and fighting cancer effectively. If you have concerns about bladder cancer or would like to learn more about blue light cystoscopy, please consult with your healthcare provider or contact the Urology Department at HSHS St. John’s Hospital.
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