Outcomes of distal ureteral reconstruction through reimplantation with psoas hitch, Boari flap, or ureteroneocystostomy for benign or malignant ureteral obstruction or injury.

OBJECTIVE: To assess functional outcomes and complications of ureteroneocystotomies (UNCs) with or without psoas hitch or Boari flap in the reconstruction and repair of the ureter.

METHODS: We reviewed a consecutive series of patients that underwent open ureteral reconstruction for ureteral obstruction or injury. Underlying ureteral disorder, preoperative and postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and imaging studies regarding resolution of hydronephrosis were assessed.

RESULTS: A total of 100 ureteral reimplantations performed at our institution from November 1986 to August 2012 were identified: 24 primary ureteroneocystotomies, 58 with psoas hitch, and 18 with Boari flap. Median follow-up was 48.7 months (range 12.3-253 months). The most common underlying disorder was ureteral transitional cell cancer (TCC). Men were found to have more frequent underlying chronic ureteral disorders with chronic renal failure when compared to women. Ureteral stents were placed in 81% and were removed after a median of 33 days (range 2-161 days). Resolution of hydronephrosis was noted in 81% of the patients. The eGFR deteriorated significantly over time only in male patients (P = .001). Postoperative complications included stent-related dysuria, urinary tract infection, and contrast-extravasation on cystogram necessitating prolonged urethral and ureteral catheter drainage.

CONCLUSION: Excellent functional outcome without significant morbidity associated with ureteral reimplantation/reconstruction was achieved. Despite resolution of hydronephrosis in the vast majority of patients, those with chronic underlying ureteral disorder and renal failure did not show improvement of their eGFR.