'Orthotopic' means "in the same place" and "neobladder" means new bladder. So an orthotopic neobladder is a substitute or new bladder that is placed in the same location as the old bladder. The neobladder is made from loops of the intestine. First, the surgeon removes a section of intestine. He then reconnects the bowel so there are no changes in bowel function. The piece of intestine that was removed is cut open to create a 'flat piece' instead of a hollow tube. The flat piece of intestine is sewn together to form a pouch. The ureters (kidney tubes) are connected to one end of this pouch, the other end of the pouch is connected to the urethra. Urine will drain from the kidneys through the ureters and into the new 'bladder', The new bladder will store the urine and the individual will void through normal channels.

The major advantages of this procedure are: - An external collection pouch is not required. - An abdominal stoma is not required. - Most individuals are able to empty the neobladder by urinating.