Ileal Orthotopic Bladder Substitute Combined with an Afferent Tubular Segment: Long-Term Upper Urinary Tract Changes and Voiding Pattern

Sex Does Not Affect Survival: A Propensity Score-Matched Comparison in a Homogenous Contemporary Radical Cystectomy Cohort

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether biological sex affects oncological outcome after extended pelvic lymph node dissection, radical cystectomy, and urinary diversion for muscle-invasive bladder cancer, and to identify risk factors impacting outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a single-center, retrospective observational cohort study with prospective data collection with a propensity score matched population. A total of 1165 consecutive patients from 2000 to 2020, (317 women and 848 men) scheduled for open extended pelvic lymph node dissection, radical cystectomy, and urinary diversion for urothelial bladder cancer were included in the final analysis. Overall Survival (OS), Cancer-Specific-Survival (CSS), and Recurrence-Free-survival (RFS) were assessed with multivariable weighted Cox regression analysis as well as with propensity score matched Cox-Regression.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found between sexes regarding OS (HR 1.18, [0.93-1.49], P = .16), CSS (HR 0.87, [0.64-1.18], P = .38), or RFS (HR 0.80, [0.59-1.07], P = .13). These results were confirmed after propensity score matching: female sex was not associated with inferior OS (HR 1.20, [0.91-1.60], P = .19), CSS (HR 1.01, [0.75-1.35], P = .97) or RFS (HR 0.98, [0.75-1.27], P = .86).

CONCLUSIONS

We did not find a significant difference in cancer-related outcomes or overall survival after extended pelvic lymph node dissection, open radical cystectomy, and urinary diversion for urothelial cancer between males and females even after adjustment with propensity matching score for multiple factors including oncological parameters, smoking status, and renal function.

Is Anti-Reflux Anastomosis an Advantage in an Orthotopic Ileal Neobladder? A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the available literature regarding the postoperative effects of anti-reflux anastomosis and direct anastomosis in orthotopic ileal neobladder (ONB).

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library in October 2021. We included 11 studies of patients with bladder cancer who underwent radical cystectomy and ONB as urinary diversion. Outcomes evaluated in this review were ureteroenteric anastomotic stricture (UEAS), vesicoureteral reflux, renal function (RFn) impairment, and pyelonephritis. All data were analyzed using Review Manager 5.4.4 and subgroup analyses were applied.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies were eligible for meta-analysis. The synthetic data suggested that anti-reflux anastomosis and direct anastomosis were comparable in terms of RFn impairment (odds ratio (OR) = 1.69; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.18-15.6; p = 0.65, I2 = 69%) and pyelonephritis (OR = 1.13; 95% CI: 0.65-1.99; p = 0.66, I2 = 1%) without significant difference in each group statistically. The pooled study data showed a significantly higher incidence of UEAS (OR = 2.84; 95% CI: 1.75-4.61, p < 0.0001, I2 = 50%) and a lower incidence of vesicoureteral reflux (OR = 0.24; 95% CI: 0.10-0.59; p = 0.002, I2 = 75%) in anti-reflux anastomosis compared to direct anastomosis. In subgroup analysis, anti-reflux anastomosis was more likely to result in UEAS than direct anastomosis, especially when ureteral stent was removed within 14 days.

CONCLUSION

Although meta-analysis showed that overall incidence of vesicoureteral reflux was higher with direct anastomosis than anti-reflux anastomosis, the rate of vesicoureteral reflux was not directly related to impairment of RFn. The anti-reflux mechanism of ONB was positively associated with a higher incidence of significant UEAS compared to the direct approach, which can lead to kidney damage and an increased risk of secondary surgical procedures.

[Follow-up surveillance of muscle-invasive urinary bladder cancer after curative treatment]

Follow-up care of patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer is subdivided into oncological and functional surveillance. More than 80% of local relapses and distant metastases occur within the first 2 years. Recurrences in the remnant urothelium also occur several years after radical cystectomy. Urinary cytology and a computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and thorax including a urography phase are the standard diagnostics for tumor follow-up. There is no clear evidence for a survival benefit for the detection of asymptomatic vs. symptomatic recurrences. After partial cystectomy or trimodal treatment, there is no established follow-up schedule; however, the relatively high incidence of intravesical recurrences should be considered as there are curative treatment approaches including salvage cystectomy. Functional surveillance, which should be carried out lifelong, encompasses prevention and diagnostics of metabolic complications, urethral/ureteral strictures, problems with the urinary stoma, urinary incontinence, sexual dysfunction and urinary tract infections.

Patient Selection and Counseling for Urinary Diversion

Patient selection and preoperative counseling are critical aspects of determining which urinary diversion to perform and should be emphasized at each stage of preoperative planning. The surgeon must have a thorough understanding of the patient's disease process, functional and psycho-emotional status, and social support network so that they can set appropriate expectations. It is also crucial to have a multidisciplinary team of individuals who are experienced with all aspects of urinary diversion care, including ostomy nurses, nurse navigators, and urologic surgeons skilled at teaching and trouble-shooting self-catheterization for continent cutaneous diversion and orthotopic diversion in the setting of hypercontinence.

[The W-shaped ileal neobladder: Long term functional outcomes and health-related quality of life]

PURPOSE

To evaluate functional outcomes and patients' health-related quality of life over ten years after a W-shaped ileal neobladder urinary diversion.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 1994 to 2004, 87 patients with bladder cancer underwent a cystoprostatectomy with a W-shaped ileal neobladder. Among them, 31 patients (35.6%) were evaluated. The average follow-up was 158months, average age was 72years. We assessed functional outcomes (use of protections, USP score, uroflowmetry, postvoid residual volume), overall health-related quality of life (SF-36 score), and specific urinary-related quality of life (Ditrovie scale).

RESULTS

Daytime continence was satisfactory in 29 patients (96.8%). Night-time continence was satisfactory in 27 patients (87.1%). Mean daytime continence, hyperactivity and dysuria scores of the USP were respectively 1.5/9, 3.2/21 and 2/9. Mean value of the maximum flow rate was 18mL/s for an average voiding volume of 324mL and an average postvoid residual volume of 70mL. The 8 dimensions of the SF-36 were all comparable with the French population's values. According to the Ditrovie scale whose average value was 1.83, the health-related quality of life was unchanged or little changed by urinary disorders in 28 patients (90.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that voiding status and health-related quality of life remain satisfactory over ten years after an orthotopic ileal neobladder derivation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

Morphological and functional analysis of a cohort of patients undergoing orthotopic ileal neobladder

INTRODUCTION

This study was conducted between January 2001 and December 2013 to evaluate patient's outcomes after radical cystectomy and orthotopic ileal neobladder from a morphological and functional point of view at a median follow-up of 2 years.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 48 eligible patents were included. We first report our technical modifications to Studer's neobladder. Sequently, after a medium follow-up of two years, we assessed morphology of the reservoir and voiding functionality of this patients cohort, submitting them to specific questionnaires and to uroflowmetry.

RESULTS

Early and late postoperative data are available for 36 patients. From the morphological follow-up, 2 years after surgery, six patients had hydroureteronephrosis for vescico-ureteral reflux in four cases (11% of total) and uretero-neobladder anastomosis stenosis in the other two (5.6% of total). Neobladder shape always remained spherical, with a relative right lateralization in eight cases (22.2%). Regarding the nine patients subjected to uroflowmetry, seven (77.7%) highlighted the lack of postvoid residual urine, with a maximum urinary flow rate within the normal range in six of them.

DISCUSSION

Improvements in surgical technique may help to reduce complications rate. From uroflowmetry analysis, we can observe that the mean filling pressure following surgery was relatively stable and urinary flow rate was mostly satisfactory. In patients without postvoid residual urine, all referred absence of daily incontinence and good quality of life.

CONCLUSION

From this morpho-functional evaluation, our orthotopic Studer-modified ileal neobladder seems an ideal solution for urinary diversion, presenting functional features similar to native bladder and assuming a well-defined morphology, not changing in time.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Acute Kidney Injury after Radical Cystectomy: Importance of Preoperative Serum Uric Acid Level

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication after surgery and increases costs, morbidity, and mortality of hospitalized patients. While radical cystectomy associates significantly with an increased risk of serious complications, including AKI, risk factors of AKI after radical cystectomy has not been reported. This study was performed to determine the incidence and independent predictors of AKI after radical cystectomy.

METHODS

All consecutive patients who underwent radical cystectomy in 2001-2013 in a single tertiary-care center were identified. Their demographics, laboratory values, and intraoperative data were recorded. Postoperative AKI was defined and staged according to the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria on the basis of postoperative changes in creatinine levels. Independent predictors of AKI were identified by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

Of the 238 patients who met the eligibility criteria, 91 (38.2%) developed AKI. Univariate logistic regression analyses showed that male gender, high serum uric acid level, and long operation time associated with the development of AKI. On multivariate logistic regression analysis, preoperative serum uric acid concentration (odds ratio [OR] = 1.251; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.048-1.493; P = 0.013) and operation time (OR = 1.005; 95% CI = 1.002-1.008; P = 0.003) remained as independent predictors of AKI after radical cystectomy.

CONCLUSIONS

AKI after radical cystectomy was a relatively common complication. Its independent risk factors were high preoperative serum uric acid concentration and long operation time. These observations can help to prevent AKI after radical cystectomy.

Renal function evaluation in patients undergoing orthotopic bladder substitution: a systematic review of literature

Renal function (RFn) after orthotopic bladder substitution (OBS) is a critical point to be assessed. We performed a systematic review of MEDLINE for full length peer reviewed English articles from the year 2000 till January 2013. We included only original articles and excluded reviews, editorials and replies and abstracts presented in conferences. The outcome is formulated in research questions; what is the status of RFn after OBS? Which is better, the direct free-refluxing or anti-refluxing ureteroileal anastomosis (UIA) techniques? Studies reporting RFn as secondary outcome were also reported. A total of 129 publications were reviewed for full text and only 41 were included in this review. All studies were of low level of evidence and grade of recommendations. Only 3 randomized controlled trials were included and were of poor quality. Renal function after OBS was poorly described in the literature with no universal definition about RFn deterioration or outcome with no consensus on the best evaluation method. Urinary obstruction, chemotherapy and pyelonephritis appeared significant factors but with insufficient evidence. There is a universal trend to use the free refluxing technique for UIA to avoid complications of anti-refluxing techniques. However, the anti-reflux technique proved acceptable outcome in experienced hands. There is marked heterogeneity and underestimation of RFn evaluation among reported outcomes after OBS with most publications reporting the incidence of UIA and pyelonephritis with paucity reporting absolute figures about RFn measurements. In conclusion, urinary tract obstruction remains the main factor of RFn deterioration after OBS. Methods evaluating RFn, definitions of RFn outcome and factors predicting it are poorly studied in the literature and the current evidence is relatively weak to draw solid conclusions. Further well-designed studies and consensus about method of assessment and definitions of RFn are warranted.

[Complications and their management after urinary diversion]

BACKGROUND

Bladder cancer is a common disease. It is predicted that 11,900 men and 4,500 women in Germany will be diagnosed with invasive bladder cancer in 2014. The cystectomy, which is standard treatment in muscle-invasive bladder cancer, requires urinary diversion.

PURPOSE

The goal of this article is to present the complications associated with urinary diversions and their management.

METHODS

Based on a selective literature search in PubMed and our own clinical experience, the options for urinary diversion and their management are discussed.

RESULTS

In patients treated with curative intent, orthotopic bladder replacement is preferred. In patients with palliative intent, incontinent cutaneous urinary diversion is commonly used. The present work shows the variety of early and late complications, peri-/postoperative mortality, and the management of these patients.

CONCLUSION

After cystectomy, various methods for urinary diversion are available, which can be used in curative and/or palliative intent. Crucial to the success and the long-term satisfaction of the patients is selection of the right urinary diversion method.

Urinary diversion after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer: options, patient selection, and outcomes

CONTEXT

The urinary reconstructive options available after radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer are discussed, as are the criteria for selection of the most appropriate diversion, and the outcomes and complications associated with different diversion options.

OBJECTIVE

To critically review the peer-reviewed literature on the function and oncological outcomes, complications, and factors influencing choice of procedure with urinary diversion after RC for bladder carcinoma.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A Medline search was conducted to identify original articles, review articles, and editorials on urinary diversion in patients treated with RC. Searches were limited to the English language. Keywords included: 'bladder cancer', 'cystectomy', 'diversion', 'neobladder', and 'conduit'. The articles with the highest level of evidence were selected and reviewed, with the consensus of all of the authors of this paper.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Both continent and incontinent diversions are available for urinary reconstruction after RC. In appropriately selected patients, an orthotopic neobladder permits the elimination of an external stoma and preservation of body image without compromising cancer control. However, the patient must be fully educated and committed to the labour-intensive rehabilitation process. He must also be able to perform self-catheterisation if necessary. When involvement of the urinary outflow tract by tumour prevents the use of an orthotopic neobladder, a continent cutaneous reservoir may still offer the opportunity for continence albeit one that requires obligate self-catheterisation. For patients who are not candidates for continent diversion, the ileal loop remains an acceptable and reliable option.

CONCLUSIONS

Both continent and incontinent diversions are available for urinary reconstruction after RC. Orthotopic neobladders optimally preserve body image, while continent cutaneous diversions represent a reasonable alternative. Ileal conduits represent the fastest, easiest, least complication-prone, and most commonly performed urinary diversion.

Continent urinary diversion

We present a review on the current options for continent urinary diversion and their different indications on the basis of patient selection. In current clinical practice continent urinary diversion is being used world-wide in patients undergoing radical cystectomy and in severe cases of benign bladder pathologies. We also discuss the specific complications of continent urinary diversion and highlight the need to rigorously monitor these patients in the long- term specifically in terms of their renal function and cancer recurrence.

Preserving continence during robotic prostatectomy

Preservation of postoperative urinary continence remains the primary concern of all men and their surgeons following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP). Without doubt, continence is the most important quality of life issue following radical prostatectomy. Identification of difficulties and lessons learned over time has helped focus efforts in order to improve urinary quality of life and continence. This review will examine definitions of continence and urinary quality of life evaluation, technical aspects and the impact of patient-related factors affecting time to and overall continence.

The Studer orthotopic neobladder: long-term (more than 10 years) functional outcomes, urodynamic features, and complications

PURPOSE

Radical cystectomy and urinary diversion are the standard treatment for invasive bladder cancer. We analyzed the long-term (>10 years postoperatively) functional outcomes, complications, and urodynamic findings in a single center series of patients who underwent cystectomy and a Studer ileal neobladder substitution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective chart review of 108 Studer pouches constructed during 1990 and 2011 was performed. Data were analyzed in terms of long-term (>10 years) outcomes. Complications, incontinence, voiding difficulties, upper urinary tract changes, overall satisfaction, and urodynamic findings of the reservoir were obtained.

RESULTS

We evaluated 19 out of 50 patients who had lived for over 10 years postoperatively. Another 31 patients were not traced: 7 patients died following recurrence, 15 died due to exacerbation of a comorbidity, and 9 patients were lost to follow-up. Concerning complications, 6 patients had an atrophied kidney, 5 patients had moderate hydronephrosis, 5 patients had chronic recurrence of pylelonephritis, and 2 patients had voiding difficulty because of bladder neck stricture due to clean intermittent catheterization. One patient underwent an operation due to intestinal obstruction. Seven patients had incontinence; all 7 patients showed intermittently at night and 2 patients even in waking hours. Maximum bladder capacity was 484.1±119.2 mL, maximum flow rate was 13.6±9.7 mL/sec, and post-void residual urine volume was 146.8±82.7 mL.

CONCLUSION

Long-term outcomes with the Studer orthotopic ileal neobladder have an acceptable complication rate and good functional results. However, potential adverse outcomes such as renal deterioration, dysfunctional voiding should also be considered.

Does the afferent tubular segment in an orthotopic bladder substitution compromise ureteric antireflux properties? An experimental study in dogs

Objective

To study the effects of a short ureter on renal function and histology in an orthotopic bladder substitution model using a long afferent limb, in a canine model.

Materials and methods

The study included nine adult mongrel dogs. A 40-cm segment of ileum was isolated, the distal half detubularized, configured into a U-shape and sutured to form a flat plate; this was then used to augment the bladder. The proximal half of the isolated ileum remained in continuity with the enterocystoplasty to form an isoperistaltic ileal ‘chimney’. The left ureter was divided at its lumbar part and anastomosed to the chimney using a refluxing end-to-side Nesbit technique. The contralateral ureter was divided at its lower end and then anastomosed directly to the augmented segment of the bladder in a similarly refluxing manner to act as a control. The assessment after surgery included biochemical studies, ascending cystography, intravenous urography (IVU) and radioisotope renography at 6 weeks. The last two methods were repeated at intervals of 3 and 6 months after surgery. Urine culture was obtained and both kidneys were examined histopathologically at 6 months.

Results

The biochemical values assessed in all dogs were comparable to those before surgery. The urine culture obtained from the augmented bladders showed significant bacterial growth in all dogs. IVU at all follow-up sample times showed a normal configuration of both kidneys. Ascending cystography showed reflux in four of nine dogs on the right and six on the left side. There was a progressive decrease in the mean selective renographic clearance values of each of the right and left kidneys at intervals of 6 weeks, 3 and 6 months. The mean percentage reduction of renographic clearance was significantly higher in the left kidneys at 6 weeks and 3 months. Histopathological examination showed evidence of interstitial nephritis in all nine dogs and pyelonephritis in four of the left kidneys, while none of the right kidneys showed evidence of inflammation.

Conclusion

Adequate peristalsis in a healthy long ureter is superior to the ileal segment substitution for protecting the kidney tissue against inflammation in the absence of an anatomical antireflux mechanism.

[Complete vesico-ureteral reconstruction with ileum in a case of genitourinary tuberculosis]

INTRODUCTION

Genitourinary tuberculosis represent 3.2% of the possible sites of the disease. The lack of treatment or an inadecuate one may lead to severe complications. We report a case and review thoroughly the literature of genitourinary tuberculosis which needed a complete vesico-ureteral reconstruction.

CLINICAL CASE

A 39 year old female patient with history of pulmonary tuberculosis who had lumbar pain and left ureterohydronephosis. She required a percutaneous urinary derivation and was diagnosed of tuberculosis by means of the urine culture. 18 months afterwards she had a right renal annulation and a left distal ureteral stenosis. A right nephectomy was performed and the left proximal ureter was desinserted accidentally, 1 cm below the pielo-ureteral junction, which required a permanent nephostomy. Then her bladder became gradually retractile. Because she was a young patient and had bad quality of life a complete reconstruction of her left urinary way was performed with an ileum made neobladder and neoureter. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSSIONS: Bladder and ureter reconstruction with ileum is a good option in difficult cases of lack or irreversible damage of the urinary way. Vesico-ureteral reconstruction letting urethral miction improves quality of life.

Complications following radical cystectomy for bladder cancer in the elderly

CONTEXT

The incidence of bladder cancer increases with advancing age. Considering the increasing life expectancy and the increasing proportion of elderly people in the general population, radical cystectomy will be considered for a growing number of elderly patients who suffer from muscle-invasive or recurrent bladder cancer.

OBJECTIVE

This article reviews contemporary complication and mortality rates after radical cystectomy in elderly patients and the relationship between age and short-term outcome after this procedure.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A literature review was performed using the PubMed database with combinations of the following keywords cystectomy, elderly, complications, and comorbidity. English-language articles published in the year 2000 or later were reviewed. Papers were included in this review if the authors investigated any relationship between age and complication rates with radical cystectomy for bladder cancer or if they reported complication rates stratified by age groups.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Perioperative morbidity and mortality are increased and continence rates after orthotopic urinary diversion are impaired in elderly patients undergoing radical cystectomy. Complications are frequent in this population, particularly when an extended postoperative period (90 d instead of 30 d) is considered.

CONCLUSIONS

Although age alone does not preclude radical cystectomy for muscle-invasive or recurrent bladder cancer or for certain types of urinary diversion, careful surveillance is required, even after the first 30 d after surgery. Excellent perioperative management may contribute to the prevention of morbidity and mortality of radical cystectomy, supplementary to the skills of the surgeon, and is probably a reason for the better perioperative results obtained in high-volume centers.

Does reflux in orthotopic diversion matter? A randomized prospective comparison of the Studer and T-pouch ileal neobladders

PURPOSE

Orthotopic neobladder reconstruction has become a standard form of urinary diversion in many centers for patients undergoing radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. There is still controversy about the best technique for construction of the neobladder, and especially whether it is necessary to include an antireflux mechanism.

METHODS

We designed a prospective randomized clinical trial comparing two forms of ileal neobladder: the Studer pouch and the T-pouch. The latter includes an extraserosal tunneled afferent limb which prevents reflux from the pouch to the kidneys. The primary endpoint of the study is renal function and anatomy at 3 years following surgery, with secondary endpoints including early and late postoperative complications, renal infections and need for secondary procedures.

RESULTS

To date we have randomized 462 patients over approximately 6 years, with a planned full enrollment of 550 patients. Ten percent of patients have been withdrawn because they did not undergo the planned orthotopic diversion due to a positive urethral margin on frozen section. We expect approximately 70% of patients to be alive and available for follow-up at 3 years, which will give us ample power to detect clinically meaningful differences in the outcome of these two diversions.

CONCLUSION

This trial has been feasible and randomization has been acceptable to most patients. Long-term follow-up of the patients on this trial should be able to definitively answer the question of the importance of an antireflux mechanism in the orthotopic neobladders construction.

Voiding symptoms and urodynamic findings in patients with modified ileal neobladde

The aim of our study was to find the cause of urinary incontinence and voiding dysfunction in patients undergoing radical cystectomy and orthotopic bladder replacement with modified ileal neobladder (Reddy). Twenty-eight incontinent patients (operated on between 1988 and 2004) were involved in our examination. Based on the complaints of the patients, continence status was evaluated and divided into two groups: group I: partially incontinent (only night-time incontinence) n = 11 (39.3%) and group II: totally incontinent (night-time and daytime incontinence) n = 17 (60.7%). Detailed urodynamic examination (enterocystometry and urethral pressure profile) in addition to involuntary neobladder contractions and capacity detection were carried out on all patients. Furthermore resting pressure and maximal voluntary contraction ability of the sphincter were determined and statistically analyzed in both groups. Significant difference was noticed in resting pressure and maximal voluntary contraction ability of the sphincter among the partially incontinent and totally incontinent patients. Frequency, intensity and duration of involuntary neobladder contractions also showed significant differences between the two groups. Incontinence of neobladder depends not only on the destruction of resting and contraction capability of the urethral sphincter, but also on the presence or absence of involuntary contractions in the wall of the neobladder and decreased capacity of the neobladder.

Management of Benign Ureteral Strictures Following Radical Cystectomy and Urinary Diversion for Bladder Cancer

PURPOSE

Ureteral obstruction due to benign strictures is a significant complication of radical cystectomy and urinary diversion for bladder cancer that can lead to renal function loss and infection related morbidity. Treatment may be performed surgically or with minimally invasive techniques. We describe the 10-year experience at our department with various treatment modalities for post-cystectomy benign strictures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 28 patients treated for benign ureteral strictures following radical cystectomy for bladder cancer. Their medical records were reviewed for clinical presentation, diagnostic procedures, treatment and long-term outcome.

RESULTS

The study group represented 12.7% of all 221 patients treated at our department with radical cystectomy for bladder cancer in 1994 to 2004. Ureteral strictures were asymptomatic in 71.4% of cases. Median time to diagnosis was 7.0 months and 75% of the patients were diagnosed within year 1 after cystectomy. Treatment consisted of stenting, dilation and open surgical revision with removal of the strictured segment and reanastomosis. Median followup was 62.5 months. The stenting procedures served as the long-term definitive treatment in 45% of cases, whereas balloon dilation uniformly failed. Although open surgical revision was technically challenging, it had a long-term success rate of 93%.

CONCLUSIONS

Benign ureteral strictures commonly occur during postoperative year 1 and they are usually asymptomatic. Early diagnosis and prompt drainage are required to prevent consequent renal parenchymal loss and infectious complications. Although minimally invasive procedures are viable treatment alternatives, open surgical revision is still the preferred long-term definitive treatment.

Evaluation of direct versus non-refluxing technique and functional results in orthotopic Y-ileal neobladder after 12 years of follow up

OBJECTIVES

We report on the long-term functional results of the orthotopic Y-ileal neobladder and compare the outcome of the antireflux technique for ureteral implantation versus direct anastomosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between 1990 and 2002, 120 patients underwent cystoprostatectomy and orthotopic Y-shaped ileal neobladder for invasive bladder carcinoma. The direct Nesbit technique for ureteral reimplantation was applied in 58 patients (group 1) and in 62 patients the ureters were reimplanted using the Le Duc antirefluxing technique (group 2). The mean follow-up period was 72 months (range, 36-144 months).

RESULTS

Of 62 patients who underwent the Le Duc technique, six (9.7%) had unilateral uretero-ileal anastomotic stricture and four (6.5%) had reflux. Of 58 patients who underwent direct anastomosis, six (10.3%) patients had unilateral reflux, four of them had dilated ureters preoperatively and no patient had uretero-ileal anastomotic stricture. The incidence of stricture formation in the Le Duc technique is significantly higher than direct anastomosis (P = 0.04). There was no significant difference in the overall incidence of reflux in both groups. However, the incidence of reflux in preoperatively dilated ureters was significantly higher in direct ureteral anastomosis than Le Duc technique (40% in group 1 vs 16.7% in group 2; P = 0.045). The incidence of stone formation, azotemia, pyelonephritis and bacteriuria was comparable in both groups. The urodynamic findings showed a mean increase in the neobladder capacity at 6 and 18 months after surgery by 340 and 560 mL, respectively. The mean of the maximum pressure was 22 +/- 10 cm H2O, 18 months after surgery. Daytime and nighttime continence was good or satisfactory in 93.3% and 85.5% of the patients, respectively, after 3 years of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The functional and voiding results of a Y-shaped neobladder pouch using 40 cm of ileum are similar to the more sophisticated larger pouches. Direct uretero-ileal anastomosis in orthotopic bladder replacement is more reasonable than the Le Duc antireflux technique in non-dilated ureters. The benefit of the antireflux technique has been overestimated despite of the frequency of stricture formation.

Urinary diversion: options, patient selection, and outcomes

Improved survival following radical cystectomy for bladder cancer as a result of advancements in combination chemotherapy and surgical technique has resulted in a philosophical change in the surgeon's approach to urinary diversion selection. Aims have evolved from the mere diversion of urine to a functional bowel conduit such as an ileal conduit or ureterosigmoidostomy, to providing the optimal diversion for the patient's quality of life. While quality of life is important, one must also consider the stage of cancer and individual patient comorbidities. Which diversion provides the best local cancer control, the lowest potential for complications (short and long term), and the easiest emotional adjustment in lifestyle while still allowing the timely completion of chemotherapy and therapeutic goals? A multidisciplinary approach to diversion selection that includes the patient, the medical oncologist, radiation oncologist, internist, and surgeon is ideal. We describe the three most commonly used types of diversions today, including conduits, continent cutaneous reservoirs, and orthotopic urethral diversions, as well as issues relative to patient selection and functional outcomes in patients undergoing radical cystectomy for the treatment of bladder cancer.

Early and Late Urodynamic Assessment of Ileal Orthotopic Bladder Substitutes Combined With an Afferent Tubular Segment

PURPOSE

Limited information is available concerning changes in the urodynamic characteristics of orthotopic bladder substitutes with time. Therefore, we compared early and late urodynamic results in patients with an ileal orthotopic bladder substitute combined with an afferent tubular segment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of 139 patients surviving at least 5 years after cystoprostatectomy and ileal orthotopic bladder substitution with an afferent tubular segment 119 underwent urodynamic assessment, including 66 at a median of 9 months (early) and 77 at a median of 62 months (late). Of these patients 24 were assessed at each time point. Simultaneously all patients were asked to complete a bladder diary and questionnaire regarding continence for at least 3 days in the week preceding the urodynamic study.

RESULTS

Urodynamic parameters were comparable in patients who were evaluated early and late postoperatively. In addition, median values at early and late urodynamic evaluation in the 24 patients with the 2 examinations showed no statistically significant differences for volume at first desire to void (300 vs 333 ml, p = 0.85), pressure at first desire to void (12 vs 13 cm H2O, p = 0.57), maximum cystometric capacity (450 vs 453 ml, p = 0.84), end filling pressure (19 vs 20 cm H2O, p = 0.17), reservoir compliance (25 vs 28 ml/cm H2O, p = 0.58) or post-void residual urine volume (5 vs 15 ml, p = 0.27).

CONCLUSIONS

Urodynamic results after 5 years of living with an ileal orthotopic bladder substitute with an afferent tubular segment show grossly unchanged urodynamic characteristics. Patients maintain a reservoir capacity and micturition pattern consistent with a normal life-style. Reservoir pressure remained low, thereby protecting and preserving upper tract function. To achieve these results patients must be regularly followed, and the causes of bacteriuria, increased post-void residual urine and bladder outlet obstruction must be recognized and dealt with accordingly.

Changes in the upper urinary tract after radical cystectomy and urinary diversion: a comparison of antirefluxing and refluxing orthotopic bladder substitutes and the ileal conduit

PURPOSE

We evaluated and compared the effects of different types of urinary diversion on functional and radiographic changes in the upper urinary tract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed data on 275 patients who underwent radical cystectomy and urinary diversion for bladder cancer and were observed at least 12 months. Of the patients 197 received an orthotopic bladder substitute, including antirefluxing ureteral anastomoses in 111 (group 1) and refluxing ureteral anastomoses in 86 (group 2). Ileal conduits were created in 78 patients (group 3). Serial serum Cr, radiographic changes in the upper urinary tract after diversion and the number of episodes of APN were compared by diversion method. Mean followup was 52 months (range 12 to 174 months) with no difference among the groups.

RESULTS

Compared with group 3 patients in groups 1 and 2 demonstrated a significantly higher incidence of moderate to severe hydronephrosis (p = 0.001) but the incidence was similar between groups 1 and 2 (6.3%, 8.3% and 1.4% of the renal units in groups 1 to 3, respectively). Stabilized postoperative Cr did not differ among the groups. CRF, defined as Cr 3.0 mg/dl or greater, occurred in 2.7% of the patients in group 1 and in 3.5% of those in group 2 but in none in group 3. APN was noted in 3.3%, 4.4% and 0.4% of patients in groups 1 to 3, respectively (p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

An ileal conduit with a lower rate of diversion related hydronephrosis, CRF and morbidity associated with APN was superior to orthotopic bladder substitutes. Between the refluxing and antirefluxing types of orthotopic bladder substitutes no significant difference in functional or radiographic changes was noted.

Long-term Functional Outcome and Late Complications of Studer's Ileal Neobladder

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term functional outcome and late complications of Studer's ileal neobladder.

METHODS

The study included 57 patients who underwent radical cystectomy and bladder reconstruction with Studer's ileal neobladder, and were followed-up for at least 3 months after surgery. The voiding and storage function, and late complications were evaluated. The times of evaluation after surgery were categorized into periods I (3-23 months), II (24-59 months), III (60-95 months) and IV (> or =96 months).

RESULTS

Daytime and night-time continence rates were 95.6 and 88.6%, respectively. The averages of functional capacity (439 ml), maximum flow rate (15.7 ml/s) and residual urine (35 ml) evaluated in period I were maintained in period IV. Of the 57 patients, intermittent self-catheterization was needed in five (8.8%) due to incomplete emptying or urinary retention. Urethroileal anastomotic stricture was found in two patients (3.5%), who were successfully treated by transurethral intervention. Inguinal hernia was found in seven patients (12.8%), five of whom developed it within 2 years after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that Studer's ileal neobladder had a favorable long-term functional outcome. Although late complication rates were low, the incidence of inguinal hernia was relatively high, and this was considered as a definite late complication in our study.