The laparoscopic Boari flap.

PURPOSE: Laparoscopic management of ureteral pathologies, such as ureteropelvic junction obstruction, ureteral calculi and retroperitoneal fibrosis, has proved to be highly effective. We present our initial experience with the laparoscopic Boari flap in regard to feasibility, safety and short-term results.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Three patients who presented with distal ureteral obstruction underwent preoperative radiographic evaluation, including excretory urography, computerized tomography and retrograde pyelography, that showed upper urinary tract dilatation at the site of obstruction. The contralateral upper urinary tract was normal in all cases. Ureteroureterostomy and ureteroneocystostomy was not feasible because of stricture length and a laparoscopic Boari flap procedure was performed. Renal function, symptom improvement and radiological studies, including excretory urography and cystography, were assessed 3 and 6 months postoperatively.

RESULTS: All procedures were successfully performed without any intraoperative complications or need for open conversion. Excretory urography showed good drainage with no obstruction of urine flow and all patients had grade I vesicoureteral reflux on cystography.

CONCLUSIONS: The laparoscopic Boari flap is feasible using currently available laparoscopic suturing techniques. Longer followup and larger series of patients are necessary to provide data comparable to that of the open approach.