Ep. 245 Intravesical Therapies for Intermediate Risk Bladder Cancer with Dr. Lindsey Herrel

With BCG in short supply and recurrence rates still high, the race is on for better intravesical options. In this episode of BackTable Tumor Board, Dr. Lindsey Herrel, urologic oncologist at the University of Michigan, joins Dr. Ruchika Talwar to explore the evolving landscape of intravesical therapy for intermediate risk bladder cancer.

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This podcast is supported by an educational grant from UroGen Pharma.

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SYNPOSIS

The doctors break down the nuances of defining this risk category and the clinical gray zones that complicate treatment decisions. Dr. Herrell shares her patient-centered approach to surveillance and therapy, and introduces promising new agents, including Anktiva, UGN-102, and the gemcitabine-releasing TAR-200 "pretzel" device. The discussion also highlights how advances in molecular profiling are reshaping care strategies.
This episode underscores the urgent need for clearer guidelines and continued innovation to improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with this nuanced disease subtype.

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TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction
02:03 - Defining Intermediate Risk Bladder Cancer
06:12 - Intravesical Therapy Options
08:47 - Quality of Life and Patient Counseling
10:18 - New Treatments on the Horizon
12:56 - Practical Tips for TURBT Recovery
17:03 - In-Office Procedure Management
21:38 - Managing Symptoms and Quality of Life
31:50 - A Note on Smoking Cessation
33:37 - Conclusion and Future Directions