New laser treatment makes bladder tumour removal more patient-friendly
The Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) has introduced an innovative technique for the removal of superficial bladder tumours. Where previously an electric resection loop under general anaesthesia was required, tumours can now be treated with a laser - without anaesthesia, and with equal oncological safety.
Innovation with impact
This new method offers significant advantages: it is less painful, eliminates the need for general anaesthesia, and can be performed outside the operating theatre. This frees up capacity in operating rooms and reduces pressure on surgical staff. In many cases, the procedure can be carried out during a routine outpatient consultation, enabling faster care and reduced patient burden.
Bladder cancer is diagnosed in approximately 7.000 patients annually in the Netherlands. Tumour recurrence occurs in 60-70% of cases. Thanks to this technique, recurrences can be treated immediately during follow-up examinations.
Regional collaboration
LUMC is the second hospital in the Netherlands to adopt this technique. Its partner, Spaarne Gasthuis, has been using it sinds 2024. LUMC is inviting other hospitals to observe the method, with the aim of broader implementation across the regional healthcare network.
