Comparing waiting times of different stages and grades of bladder cancer in the fast-track at Örebro University Hospital

Abstract: Background Waiting times of the fast-track of bladder cancer in Sweden are prolonged compared with set lead times.Aim To investigate if stage and grade of tumor affects waiting times.Method Retrospective single center observational study, Örebro University Hospital, Sweden. All patients who underwent resection of tumor or cystoscopy with biopsy via the fast-track between July 1st 2017 and December 31st 2018 were included, n=119.Result The waiting times of muscle invasive tumors were in general longer than for non-invasive tumors. Referral to TURBT - twelve days (p=0.047), referral to information of diagnosis to patient - seven days (p=0.04) and cystoscopy to TURBT - eleven days (p=0.041.Conclusion MIBC had longer waiting times to most steps of the fast-track. There are conflicting results in previous studies regarding whether extended waiting times result in worse outcomes in those with higher stage and grade of tumors or not. It is known that long waiting times results in higher mortality and psychological stress among the patients why reorganizations at the department should take place.