DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Pathologically proven complete resection of locally advanced transitional cell carcinoma of the urothelium with negative margins Disease extends beyond the bladder, the ureter, or into the regional lymph nodes Stages eligible for patients with bladder cancer: Tany, N+, M0 T3b, N0, M0 T4a, N0, M0 Stages eligible for patients with urothelial cancer of the renal pelvis or ureter: Tany, N+, M0 T3, N0, M0 T4, N0, M0 Local control of primary urothelial tumor obtained by: Cystoprostatectomy plus pelvic lymph node dissection for bladder cancer in males Cystectomy/TAH/BSO and pelvic lymph node dissection for bladder cancer in females Nephroureterectomy for disease involving the renal pelvis or ureter