Optimum duration of splinting after endopyelotomy.

OBJECTIVE: Endopyelotomy is a well-accepted modality of treatment for pelviureteral junction (PUJ) obstruction, but the time period of stenting is debatable. The present study was aimed at evaluating the optimum duration and effectiveness of splinting after endopyelotomy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Twenty-nine consecutive patients with primary PUJ obstruction were randomized to have an external splint (for economic reasons) for 2 weeks or 4 weeks. Thirteen patients in each group were available for evaluation. The groups were comparable in age, sex, symptoms, and preoperative glomerular filtration rate (GFR). All patients underwent antegrade endopyelotomy with placement of an 8F-12F polyethylene splint across the PUJ. A nephrostogram was performed after removal of splint at 2 or 4 weeks. Nondraining units were managed by putting in a 6F double-J stent for 6 weeks and considered failures. Patients were evaluated at 3, 6, and 12 months for symptomatic improvement, change in GFR, and drainage pattern on a diuretic renogram.

RESULTS: At 1 year, a nonobstructed curve pattern was seen in 70% and improvement in GFR in 54% of the patients in the 2-weeks group, whereas in the 4-weeks group, these values were 54% and 39%, respectively. All patients in the 4-weeks group and 90% of those in the 2-weeks group were symptom free at 1 year of follow-up. Morbidity in terms of tube-related complications was comparable.

CONCLUSION: Two weeks of splinting is as effective as 4 weeks in the successful outcome of endopyelotomy.