The immediate surgical risks of a partial cystectomy are similar to the risks for a radical cystectomy. These include bleeding, infection, damage to adjacent organs, and so forth (see Question 39). During a radical cystectomy, the bladder is removed intact. For a partial cystectomy, the bladder is opened, which potentially exposes the body to a risk of spread of the tumor during surgery.
Current precautions taken during partial cystectomy seem to avoid spreading the tumor, but there is some theoretical risk. Another added risk to a partial cystectomy is the potential to have a recurrence of the bladder cancer in a new area of the remaining bladder. This is a life-long risk for those who have had a partial cystectomy, requiring frequent cystoscopy and cytology to monitor for any recurrence. At least 40% of patients will eventually have a recurrence.