Understanding Deion Sanders' Bladder Cancer Diagnosis
In July 2025, Deion Sanders held a press conference to publicly reveal his battle with an aggressive, high-risk form of bladder cancer, which was discovered earlier in the year. This diagnosis came after a routine annual CT scan for his ongoing vascular issues, proving to be a critical step in his early detection and subsequent treatment. The tumor was found to be invading the bladder wall but had not yet reached the muscle layer, a factor that allowed for more favorable treatment options.
The Surgical Procedure: Cystectomy and Neobladder Creation
After consulting with his medical team, including urologic oncologist Dr. Janet Kukreja, Sanders made the decision to undergo a full robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder removal, a procedure known as a radical cystectomy. This choice was made in part due to the high rate of recurrence (around 50%) associated with his specific type of cancer if treated non-invasively, as well as his desire to focus on his coaching career without long-term hospital visits.
Following the removal of his bladder, surgeons performed a complex reconstructive procedure called a neobladder construction. This involved using a section of his small intestine to create a new internal bladder, which was then connected to his urethra, allowing him to pass urine naturally. This is a key distinction from a permanent urostomy bag, though patients typically require the temporary use of a urostomy pouch or catheters during the initial healing process.
The Post-Surgery Experience: Urostomy and Adaptation
During his recovery, Sanders openly discussed the challenges of adapting to his new urinary system. He humorously acknowledged his temporary reliance on incontinence products and even joked about the possibility of a portable toilet on the sidelines. This transparency served to normalize the experience for others and highlighted the significant lifestyle changes that accompany such a major surgery. While Sanders did use a urostomy bag during the initial post-operative phase, the ultimate goal of his neobladder procedure was to eliminate the need for a permanent external bag.
Urostomy Bag vs. Neobladder: A Comparison
To fully understand Sanders' situation, it's helpful to differentiate between a permanent urostomy and a neobladder.
| Feature | Urostomy Bag (Permanent) | Neobladder (Internal Pouch) |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Collects urine externally via a stoma into a bag. | Creates an internal reservoir for urine from a section of intestine. |
| Appearance | Requires an external pouch to be worn. | No external appliance needed, as it functions internally. |
| Urination Method | Urine drains constantly into the bag and is emptied periodically. | The patient learns to empty the new bladder by using abdominal muscles or self-catheterization. |
| Maintenance | Regular stoma and bag care is required. | Requires a period of retraining and may involve self-catheterization. |
| Mobility | Can be more restrictive for some activities, depending on the person. | Generally offers greater mobility and discretion. |
| Sanders' Situation | Used temporarily during the early recovery phase. | His chosen long-term solution for bladder reconstruction. |
The Road to Recovery and Raising Awareness
Beyond his bladder cancer, Sanders has a well-documented history of other health issues, particularly related to blood clots, which led to the amputation of two toes in 2021. This history of health challenges has made him an advocate for proactive healthcare and early detection. Throughout his recovery from the bladder surgery, he maintained his trademark humor and positive attitude, but also used his platform to send a serious message about getting regular checkups.
His openness about his health journey has had a ripple effect, encouraging more men, particularly within the African-American community who face higher mortality rates from late detection, to get screened. By sharing his experience, he has not only normalized the conversation around men's health issues but has also demonstrated that a serious medical diagnosis doesn't have to define a person or end a career.
Conclusion: A Clear Answer and a Broader Message
To answer the initial query, while Deion Sanders did use a urostomy bag temporarily during his bladder cancer recovery, it is not a permanent feature of his life. His decision to undergo a radical cystectomy and neobladder reconstruction means he now has an internal urinary pouch, not an external urostomy bag. His experience serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and encourages others to take their health seriously. His journey is a testament to resilience and the profound impact that proactive healthcare can have on an individual's life. He continues to coach, inspiring his team and fans with his transparency and determination. For more information on bladder cancer and urostomy procedures, you can visit the American Cancer Society.
