A review of ureteral injuries after external trauma

Imaging of Urologic Trauma

Urologic trauma encompassed a wide range of injuries affecting the urologic tract, resulting from various traumatic events or iatrogenic procedures. This review explores the clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, and management approaches of urologic trauma, emphasizing the critical role of imaging, particularly computed tomography, in accurately assessing and guiding treatment decisions. Renal, ureteral, bladder, and urethral trauma are comprehensively discussed, including mechanisms of injury, classification systems, and therapeutic interventions. In addition, we discuss potential complications such as post-traumatic urinoma, delayed bleeding, urinary fistula, perinephric abscess, pyelonephritis, and hydronephrosis.

Delayed diagnosis of proximal ureter injury after a blunt abdominal trauma in Korea: a case report

Traumatic ureteral injuries account for fewer than 1% of traumatic urologic injuries, and those caused by blunt trauma are even rarer than those caused by penetrating trauma. The symptoms associated with ureteral injury may be subtle, with or without hematuria, making it difficult to diagnose. We report the case of a 31-year-old man with a delayed diagnosis of proximal ureter injury after abdominal blunt trauma sustained in a motorcycle traffic accident. The patient underwent emergency laparotomy on admission for liver injury, mesenteric injury, and resultant hemoperitoneum. On postoperative day 6, he underwent angioembolization for suspected remnant intra-abdominal bleeding. Persistent symptoms of flank pain and leukocytosis led to follow-up imaging studies that revealed proximal ureter injury, and the patient underwent unilateral nephrectomy. This case stresses the importance of clinical suspicion for genitourinary injuries in the presence of abdominal trauma.

Reconstruction of the Ureter Using the Boari Flap and Psoas Hitch Techniques in a Patient With Damage to the Proximal Part of the Ureter: A Case Report

Although the Boari flap technique is commonly described in the literature as a method for primarily distal and middle ureteral injuries, it can also be used for reconstructing the proximal segment of the ureter. In this case study, we present a patient who underwent gynecological surgery with subsequent damage to the proximal ureter, and who underwent ureteral reconstruction using methods such as kidney mobilization, Boari flap, and psoas hitch. The postoperative period was uncomplicated, and after a six-month follow-up, the reconstructed ureter is functioning well, and the patient is in good health.

Isolated Posttraumatic Lesion of the Ureter: A Rare Pathology

Isolated traumatic ureteral injuries are uncommon physiological conditions that can be difficult to manage. This case concerns a 65-year-old man who was referred to the Urology Clinic, suffering left lumbar pain after falling from the same level. A computed tomographic scan revealed the presence of hydronephrosis and a significant perinephric extravasation. The patient underwent the insertion of a JJ stent due to acute renal failure, inflammatory syndrome, hydronephrosis, and the existence of a large urinoma. Postoperatively, remission of the inflammatory syndrome and acute renal failure was observed, and from a clinical point of view, the patient became asymptomatic. Three months after the surgery, the imaging studies show no urine leakage outside the urinary system.

Summary Paper of the Updated 2023 European Association of Urology Guidelines on Urological Trauma

CONTEXT

The European Association of Urology (EAU) Guidelines Panel for Urological Trauma has produced guidelines in order to assist medical professionals in the management of urological trauma in adults for the past 20 yr. It must be emphasised that clinical guidelines present the best evidence available to the experts, but following guideline recommendations will not necessarily result in the best outcome. Guidelines can never replace clinical expertise when making treatment decisions for individual patients regarding other parameters such as experience and available facilities. Guidelines are not mandates and do not purport to be a legal standard of care.

OBJECTIVE

To present a summary of the 2023 version of the EAU guidelines on the management of urological trauma.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

A systematic literature search was conducted from 1966 to 2022, and articles with the highest certainty evidence were selected. It is important to note that due to its nature, genitourinary trauma literature still relies heavily on expert opinion and retrospective series.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Databases searched included Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Libraries, covering a time frame between May 1, 2021 and April 29, 2022. A total of 1236 unique records were identified, retrieved, and screened for relevance.

CONCLUSIONS

The guidelines provide an evidence-based approach for the management of urological trauma.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Trauma is a serious public health problem with significant social and economic costs. Urological trauma is common; traffic accidents, falls, intrapersonal violence, and iatrogenic injuries are the main causes. Developments in technology, continuous training of medical professionals, and improved care of polytrauma patients reduce morbidity and maximise the opportunity for quick recovery.

Fracture of the Lumbar Spine Associated with Ureteral Injury Mimicking Spondylodiscitis Followed by Cervical Spine Fracture in Patient with Ankylosing Hyperostosis

The purpose of this case report is to describe the case of a patient with ankylosing spinal hyperostosis (ASH) and lumbar spine fracture complicated by ureteral injury mimicking spondylodiscitis with osteomyelitis features and retroperitoneal abscess formation followed by the cervical spine fracture. A consecutive analysis and summary of the medical history, radiological documentation, operative procedure, complications, and outcomes were performed. A 59-year-old man presented with abdominal pain three weeks after sustaining a low-energy fall. The performed CT scans demonstrated a three-column fracture at the L3/L4 level and features of ASH. Additionally, MRI scans demonstrated hyperintense fluid collection within L3/L4 intervertebral space communicating with both psoas major muscles, mimicking spondylodiscitis with osteomyelitis features and retroperitoneal abscess formation. An in situ instrumented lumbar fusion at the L2-L3-L5-S1 levels with implantation vertebral body replacement implant at the L3/L4 level was performed. Postoperative CT imaging revealed evidence of post-traumatic right ureteral injury. Following urological treatment covering nephrectomy and ureter ligation, the patient was maintained at a 2-year follow-up. After this period, the patient presented again with tetraparesis after sustaining a low-energy fall. The performed CT scans demonstrated a three-column fracture at the C5/C6 level. The combined anterior and posterior osteosynthesis at the C4-C5-C6-C7 levels was performed. This case report presents the rare clinical constellation regarding the lumbar spine fracture complicated by ureteral injury followed by a cervical spine fracture regarding the same patient. The potential injury of retroperitoneal structures, including the ureter after hyperextensive lumbar spine fracture, should be considered in ASH patients. In this case, one should be aware of the atypical clinical presentation regarding the observed spondylodiscitis- and osteomyelitis-like features.

Feline ureteral rupture with para-ureteral urinomas following blunt trauma: clinical presentation and long-term outcome after treatment by urinary diversion for five cases from 2012 to 2019

CASE HISTORY

Medical records were reviewed for cats that underwent surgical treatment of traumatic ureteral rupture (TUR) using urinary diversion procedures between 2012 and 2019.

CLINICAL FINDINGS AND TREATMENT

Five cats had presented with injuries associated with road traffic accidents. These included three cats with abdominal hernias that required surgical management. At a median of 15 days after the accident, cats represented with lethargy, the presence of an abdominal mass or with lower urinary tract symptoms and in all cats contrast diagnostic imaging showed proximal unilateral TUR with associated para-ureteral urinoma. Four cats received subcutaneous ureteral bypass (SUB) device placement and one had ureteral anastomosis over a stent. Unilateral cyst-like retroperitoneal fluid consistent with para-ureteral urinoma was observed in all cats and a diffuse retroperitoneal haematoma was noticed in four cats. No immediate major complications occurred, and all cats had post-operative serum creatinine concentration within the reference interval. The cat that had received a ureteral stent subsequently required placement of a SUB following stent encrustation 15 months after surgery. Median follow-up time was 34 (min 28, max 58) months and renal function was normal in all cats at the last follow-up.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Urinary diversion procedures provided long-term stable renal function following proximal TUR in these five cats. Delayed, subtle non-specific clinical signs subsequent to high-energy blunt trauma causing abdominal hernia and associated diffuse retroperitoneal haematoma, should raise suspicion of TUR.

ABBREVIATIONS

AFAST: Abdominal focused assessment with sonography for trauma; SUB: Subcutaneous ureteral bypass; TUR: Traumatic ureteral rupture.

Minimally Invasive Surgery for Genitourinary Trauma: A Nationwide Outcomes-Based Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Bladder and ureteral injuries are uncommon in trauma patients but are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Patients presenting with such injuries may undergo either open surgical repair or laparoscopic repair. We aimed to compare outcomes of open surgical approach and laparoscopy in trauma patients with isolated bladder and ureteral injury. We hypothesized that laparoscopy is associated with improved outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a 2017 review of American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program and identified trauma patients with bladder and ureteral injury who underwent open surgical repair or laparoscopy. A 1:1 propensity score matching was performed adjusting for demographics, emergency department vitals (systolic blood pressure, heart rate, Glasgow Coma Scale), mechanism of injury, Injury Severity Score, each body region Abbreviated Injury Scale score, and transfusion units. Outcomes were rates of in-hospital major complications and mortality.

RESULTS

Of the 1,004,440 trauma patients, 384 patients (open: 192 and laparoscopy: 192) were matched and included. The mean age was 36 ± 15 y, Injury Severity Score was 27 [27-48], 77% were males, and 56% of patients had a blunt mechanism of injury, and 44% had penetrating injuries. Overall mortality was 7.3%. On univariate analysis, mortality was lower in the open group as compared to the laparoscopy group (10.4% versus 4.2%, P = 0.019) and survivor-only hospital length of stay was longer in the open group (8 [8-9] versus 7 [5-11], P = 0.008). There was no difference in overall major complications (23% versus 21%, P = 0.621). On multivariate analysis, open surgical repair was independently associated with lower odds of mortality (adjusted odds ratio: 0.405, 95% confidence interval: [0.17-0.95], P-value = 0.038) CONCLUSIONS: In our analysis open surgical repair of bladder and ureteral injuries was associated with lower mortality with other outcomes being similar when compared to laparoscopy. Laparoscopic surgical repair may not have an advantage over the open surgical repair for bladder and ureteral injuries. Further prospective studies are needed to delineate the ideal surgical approach for these injuries.

Delayed Diagnosis of Blunt Ureteral Injury following Motor Vehicle Collision

Background

A 19-year-old male requiring emergency surgery after presenting to the emergency department (ED) as a trauma activation status post-motor vehicle collision. Summary. The patient presented to the ED after a motor vehicle collision. He was taken emergently to the operating room after finding hemoperitoneum on computerized tomography scan without evidence of solid organ injury. Significant small and large bowel injuries were discovered requiring resection and anastomosis. The patient had an uneventful post-operative recovery and was discharged home. He was later re-admitted to the hospital with a large pelvic abscess and a left mid-ureteral stricture causing hydronephrosis. The abscess was treated with antibiotics, and the left ureteral injury was treated with a nephrostomy tube and stent placement. He made a full recovery after hospital re-admission and a delay in diagnosis of blunt ureteral injury.

Conclusion

Patients involved in motor vehicle collisions are at risk of multi-system trauma including genito-urinary injuries. A small percentage of these patients may present with blunt ureteral injuries. A high index of suspicion is required to make an early diagnosis. Earlier diagnosis may help to prevent morbidity.

Ureteral Injury by a Retained Knife After Abdominal Trauma: A Case Report

Isolated ureteral injuries are rare, occurring particularly in gunshot wounds to the abdomen. These are much rarer in the context of stab wounds. These lesions are usually silent. We report a 30-year-old man with a history of abdominal penetrating trauma with a knife, 11 years ago before the actual admission to the urology department. The patient's report describes a retained metallic foreign body in the right lumbar area. At admission, the patient presented with a four-months history of right lumbago. An abdominal computed tomography scan revealed the presence of a right para-renal small urinoma and identified the 52 x 20 mm metallic foreign body at the level of L3 and L4 vertebral bodies, with the presence of mild right ureterohydronephrosis. Ureteral injuries can lead to significant morbidity and mortality when unrecognized or mismanaged. The basis of therapy for patients with ureteral injuries is to maintain renal drainage with options depending on individual cases.

Bioengineering solutions for Ureteric disorders: Clinical need, challenges and opportunities

Objectives

To summarise the causes of ureteric damage and the current standard of care, discussing the risks and benefits of available therapeutic options. We then focus on the current and future solutions that can be provided by ureteric bioengineering and provide a description of the ideal characteristics of a bioengineered product.

Methods

We performed a literature search in February 2021 in: Google Scholar, Medline, and Web of Science. Three searches were conducted, investigating: (a) the epidemiology of ureteric pathology, (b) the current standard of care, and (c) the state of the art in ureteric bioengineering.

Results

The most‐common causes of ureteric damage are iatrogenic injury and external trauma. Current approaches to treatment include stent placement or surgical reconstruction. Reconstruction can be done using either urological tissue or segments of the gastrointestinal tract. Limitations include scarring, strictures, and infections. Several bioengineered alternatives have been explored in animal studies, with variations in the choice of scaffold material, cellular seeding populations, and pre‐implantation processing. Natural grafts and hybrid material appear to be associated with superior outcomes. Furthermore, seeding of the scaffold material with stem cells or differentiated urothelial cells allows for better function compared to acellular scaffolds. Some studies have attempted to pre‐implant the graft in the omentum prior to reconstruction, but this has yet to prove any definitive benefits.

Conclusion

There is an unmet clinical need for safer and more effective treatment for ureteric injuries. Urological bioengineering is a promising solution in preclinical studies. However, substantial scientific, logistic, and economic challenges must be addressed to harness its transformative potential in improving outcomes.

Ureteral Injuries Secondary to Blunt Abdominal Trauma: A 15-Year Review of Presentation, Management, and Outcomes at a Level 1 Trauma Center

OBJECTIVES

To report our contemporary experience with ureteral injuries secondary to blunt trauma, with diagnostic methods and management stratified according to injury severity.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective 15-year study (4/2005-4/2020) at a regional level I trauma center. Patients were categorized as having a partial or complete transection injury. Treatment success was defined as the absence of hydronephrosis or obstruction on follow-up imaging.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients suffered 10 partial and 9 complete ureteral transections. All 16 patients who underwent initial evaluation with computed tomography were correctly graded as having partial or complete transections, and there were no missed injuries. Treatment of partial transections included observation (3/9), retrograde double-J stent placement (4/9), and Heineke-Mikulicz pyeloplasty (2/9). At a median follow-up of 9 (IQR 2-59) months, 8/9 (89%) partial transections were treated successfully. Treatment of complete transections included pyeloplasty (3/9), ureteroureterostomy (4/9), and ureteroneocystostomy (1/9). One patient who underwent attempted reconstruction 6 days after trauma required nephrectomy. At a median follow-up of 32 (IQR 4-82) months, 7/8 (89%) reconstructed complete transections were treated successfully.

CONCLUSIONS

CT with delayed phase imaging is a sensitive test to detect ureteral injuries after blunt trauma, and CT can distinguish between partial and complete transections. Partial transection injuries secondary to blunt trauma may be amenable to ureteral stent placement or close observation in select cases. Good intermediate-term outcomes can be achieved with early surgical intervention in the case of complete transections.

Difficulties in Diagnosing Extraperitoneal Ureteroinguinal Hernias: A Review of the Literature and Clinical Experience of a Rare Encounter in Acute Surgical Care Settings

Although inguinal hernia repair is one of the most common surgical procedures, finding a retroperitoneal structure, such as the ureter, is a rather rare occurrence. Ureteroinguinal hernias may arise in the presence or absence of obstructive uropathy, the latter raising difficulties in diagnosis for the general surgeon performing a regular inguinal hernia surgery. This study aims to collect the relevant literature describing the diagnosis and management of ureteroinguinal hernias and update it with a case encountered in our clinic. The following study was reported following the SCARE guidelines. The relevant literature describes less than 150 cases of ureteroinguinal hernias overall, considering the 1.7% prevalence of inguinal hernias in the general population. With only 20% of these hernias being described as extraperitoneal, such an encounter becomes an extremely rare finding. Our clinical experience brings a case of a 75-year-old male with frequent urinary tract infections and a large irreducible inguinoscrotal hernia of about 20/12 cm located at the right scrotum. The patient underwent an open inguinal hernia repair technique under general anesthesia, incidentally finding an extraperitoneal ureteral herniation. Segmental ureterectomy was performed with uneventful recovery. Intraoperatively, finding an incidental ureteroinguinal hernia raises concerns about probable urinary tract complications during regular hernia repair surgery and whether the diagnosis is likely to happen prior to surgical intervention. Although imaging is rarely indicated in inguinal hernias, the case reports show that a pelvic CT scan with urography in symptomatic patients with urinary symptoms will provide accurate confirmation of the diagnosis. The relevant literature is limited due to the rarity of respective cases, thus making standardized management of such cases unlikely.

Bilateral renal descensus and intravesicular ureteroneocystostomy for treatment of bilateral ureteral ligation and transection that occurred during ovariohysterectomy in two cats

CASE DESCRIPTION

6-month-old and 7-month-old spayed female domestic shorthair cats were referred because of complications associated with inadvertent bilateral ureteral ligation and transection during ovariohysterectomy.

CLINICAL FINDINGS

Both cats had a 1- to 2-day history of lethargy, inappetence, and vomiting. Initial exam findings included lethargy, signs of abdominal pain, anuria, and dehydration. Clinicopathologic testing revealed azotemia and hyperkalemia. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed peritoneal effusion and bilateral pyelectasia in both cats and retroperitoneal effusion in one. Fluid analysis in both cats supported a diagnosis of uroabdomen.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME

Exploratory celiotomy was performed in both cats, and bilateral ureteral ligation and transection was confirmed. Bilateral renal descensus and ureteroneocystostomy with an intravesicular mucosal apposition technique was successfully performed in both cats. Clinicopathologic evaluation performed 1 day after surgery in one cat and 5 days after surgery in the other revealed complete resolution of azotemia. Ultrasonographic examination of the urogenital tract performed approximately 4 months after surgery in the first cat and 1 month after surgery in the second cat revealed complete resolution of renal pelvic dilation bilaterally.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Bilateral intravesicular ureteroneocystostomy in conjunction with bilateral renal descensus was used successfully to treat bilateral ureteral transection that occurred in 2 cats during routine ovariohysterectomy. Limited treatment options currently exist for this serious complication, and euthanasia is often considered. This technique, which relies on the use of the natural surrounding tissues for successful treatment, can offer a potential treatment option to correct this uncommon but devastating complication.

[The urologist confronted with a mass killing]

INTRODUCTION

Following the Paris attacks in 2015, the French hospital system has had to organize itself in mass casualties of serious injuries, especially hemorrhagic shock. Recent experience shows that the first flow of casualties is spontaneously directed to the structure closest to the events, whether it is suitable or not. Any surgeon can face such a crisis regardless of their practice structure, because terrorist attacks are unpredictable. The urologist must anticipate the responsibilities that they might be forced to shoulder in such a situation.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A systematic literature review based on PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar was conducted between January 2000 and June 2021.

RESULTS

In addition to a coordinator role, reserved for the most experienced, his visceral surgical expertise would allow a urologist to apply damage control (DC) at each stage. We describe here the principles of DC, in particular the DC laparotomy including its strategy concerning genitourinary lesions.

DISCUSSION

Whatever his role (sorter, organizer, technician) in the management of a mass casualties of hemorrhagic injuries, an urologist has to know the principles of DC. A damage control laparotomy (stage 1 of DC) requires the urologist surgeon to never seek to perform a primary reconstruction procedure but to favor speed and efficiency (both on the hemostatic and urostatic side) to lead the injured patient stabilized to faster in intensive care unit (stage 2). Revision surgery called "definitive surgical management" (stage 3) will be performed anyway at the end of this period.

Management of genitourinary trauma – current evaluation from the Sub-Saharan region: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Trauma is a major cause of morbidity globally and the sixth leading cause of death, accounting for 10% of all mortalities. The genitourinary trauma is estimated for approximately 10% of all patients presenting with trauma, and the kidney is the most injured genitourinary organ globally. However, there is a paucity of data on genitourinary injury from the Sub-Saharan, and there may be variations from common genitourinary organs injured in developed nations.

AIM

To provide insight on the epidemiology and management of genitourinary trauma in Sub-Saharan Africa with recommendations based on international guidelines.

METHODS

A thorough literature search of genitourinary trauma was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar and African Journal Online.

RESULTS

A total of 30 studies from the Sub-Saharan region were eligible for the study and reviewed for epidemiology, biodata, types of injury, mechanisms of injury, treatment and follow-up. After evaluating 21904 patients presenting with urological emergencies, approximately 6.6% of cases were due to genitourinary trauma. The commonest injury was urethral 42.9% (22.2-62.2%) followed by injury to the external genitalia (penis, scrotum, testes) 25.1% (8.8-67.7%).

CONCLUSION

Genitourinary injury in Sub-Saharan Africa is underreported, and the presence of more trauma registries, trained urologists and trauma facilities could improve the overall standard of care as well as providing data for research and development in the field.

Trauma in pediatric urology

In pediatric trauma, the kidney is the most commonly injured organ of the urinary tract. Renal trauma occurs in 10% to 20% of all pediatric blunt abdominal trauma cases. The vast majority of renal injuries can be treated conservatively. However, cases associated with hemodynamic instability require operative interventions. Injuries to the ureter, bladder or urethra are almost exclusively encountered in polytraumatized children. The aim of this article is to give an overview on traumatic injuries to the pediatric urinary system.

Damage Control for renal trauma: the more conservative the surgeon, better for the kidney

Urologic trauma is frequently reported in patients with penetrating trauma. Currently, the computerized tomography and vascular approach through angiography/embolization are the standard approaches for renal trauma. However, the management of renal or urinary tract trauma in a patient with hemodynamic instability and criteria for emergency laparotomy, is a topic of discussion. This article presents the consensus of the Trauma and Emergency Surgery Group (CTE) from Cali, for the management of penetrating renal and urinary tract trauma through damage control surgery. Intrasurgical perirenal hematoma characteristics, such as if it is expanding or actively bleeding, can be reference for deciding whether a conservative approach with subsequent radiological studies is possible. However, if there is evidence of severe kidney trauma, surgical exploration is mandatory and entails a high probability of requiring a nephrectomy. Urinary tract damage control should be conservative and deferred, because this type of trauma does not represent a risk in acute trauma management.

Imaging of ureter: a primer for the emergency radiologist

In this review article, we will discuss the gamut of abnormalities involving the ureters. In the emergency department, ureterolithiasis is the most common indication for imaging abdomen and pelvis. However, spectrum of ureteral abnormalities including congenital, infectious and inflammatory, primary and secondary ureteral malignancies, retroperitoneal fibrosis rare described in this article may be encountered. Thus, we will describe acute subacute as well as chronic conditions that may affect ureter. Knowledge of common, as well as rare entities and their imaging features, is of utmost importance to enable appropriate management.

Two Cases of Isolated Ureteral Injury Secondary to Blunt Force Trauma

Ureteral injuries although rare can cause serious issues. The mechanism of injury is most commonly penetrating but in some rare cases blunt forces can contribute. It is important to diagnose ureteral injuries as soon as possible because they can have significant morbidity and mortality. Here we present two cases of isolated ureteral injury secondary to blunt force trauma. Both patients had the ureteral injury diagnosed by computed tomography (CT) scan and confirmed by a ureterogram with extravasation of contrast. Both patients also had peripelvic cyst, which could have been a contributing risk factor for injury. In both cases, the ureteral injury was repaired using a stent and both patients had no complications. We present these cases along with presentation, diagnostic work-up, and treatment.

Proximal ureteral reconstruction using renal capsule flap: a canine experimental model

Introduction

The aim of this article was to evaluate the effectiveness of using the renal capsule in ureteral reconstruction in a canine model.

Material and methods

Ten clinically healthy male adult dogs were used in this study. Dogs underwent ureteral reconstruction using a tube-shaped flap of the renal capsule.

Results

All but one animal (90%) survived till nephrectomy and thereafter. At 30 days after operation, the double-J stent was removed from the ureter, and at the 60^th day, intravenous pyelography confirmed openness of the duct. The internal surface of the tunneled flap was coated with thick, folded urothelium. Maturing granulation tissue and angiogenesis as well as fiber producing fibroblasts were observed in the lamina propria. The presence of smooth muscle cells beneath the lamina propria indicated complete reconstitution of the damaged ureter.

Conclusions

The results showed that the autologous renal capsular flap provided a practical option for treating ureteral defects in dogs with an acceptable outcome. So, using the selfsame renal capsular tissue is a feasible method for restoration of the injured proximal ureter.

Kidney and uro-trauma: WSES-AAST guidelines

Renal and urogenital injuries occur in approximately 10-20% of abdominal trauma in adults and children. Optimal management should take into consideration the anatomic injury, the hemodynamic status, and the associated injuries. The management of urogenital trauma aims to restore homeostasis and normal physiology especially in pediatric patients where non-operative management is considered the gold standard. As with all traumatic conditions, the management of urogenital trauma should be multidisciplinary including urologists, interventional radiologists, and trauma surgeons, as well as emergency and ICU physicians. The aim of this paper is to present the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) and the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST) kidney and urogenital trauma management guidelines.

Computed tomography (CT) in the evaluation of bladder and ureteral trauma: indications, technique, and diagnosis

INTRODUCTION

Trauma to the genitourinary system includes blunt and penetrating injuries to bladder and ureters. These are rare injuries and are overlooked as other abdominal and pelvic injuries often take priority. Delayed diagnosis can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Computed tomography has taken a central role in the imaging of the ureters and bladder.

METHODS

This article reviews the anatomic relationships, mechanisms of injury, and clinical presentation to help physicians determine when bladder and ureteral injuries should be suspected and further imaging should be pursued. Radiologic evaluation of bladder and ureteral injury with CT cystography and CT urography, respectively, will be reviewed.

CONCLUSION

CT cystography and CT urography are effective tools in identifying potentially serious injuries to the genitourinary system. Timely recognition of these injuries can be crucial for the overall management and prognosis.

Distal ureteric rupture caused by blunt abdominal trauma: A rare case report

Ureteral trauma is a rare case and generally results from severe trauma events. A 6-year-old boy came with the chief complaint open wound in the lower right abdomen after falling from the bike. Abdominal MSCT with contrast showed the free liquid in the peritoneal cavity, and Retrograde Pyelogram showed the contrast extravasation. According to the algorithm, a surgical exploration must be performed because of the contrast extravasation. In this case, there found a total rupture of right distal ureter. Debridement was performed, and Double J Stent was implanted. This patient got treatment quickly so he didn't suffer disability and death.

[Advances in surgical repair of ureteral injury]

Ureteral injury can be classified as iatrogenic or traumatic, which represents a rare but challenging field of reconstructive urology. Due to their close proximity to vital abdominal and pelvic organs, the ureters are highly susceptible to iatrogenic injury, while ureteral injury caused by external trauma is relatively rare. The signs of ureteric injury are difficult to identify initially and often present after a delay. The treatment of ureteral injury, which is depended on the type, location, and degree of injury, the time of diagnosis and the patient's overall clinical condition, ranges from simple endoscopic management to complex surgical reconstruction. And long defect of the ureter presents much greater challenges to urologists. Ureterotomy under endoscopy using laser or cold-knife is available for the treatment of 2-3 cm benign ureteral injuries or strictures. Pyeloplasty is an effective treatment for ureteropelvic junction obstruction and some improved methods showed the possibility of repairing long-segment (10-15 cm) stenosis. Proximal and mid-ureteral injuries or strictures of 2-3 cm long can often be managed by primary ureteroureterostomy. When not feasible due to ureteral defects of longer segment, mobilization of the kidney should be considered, and transureteroureterostomy is alternative if the proximal ureter is of sufficient length. And autotransplantation or nephrectomy is regarded as the last resorts. Most of the injuries or strictures are observed in the distal ureter, below the pelvic brim, and are usually treated with ureteroneocystostomy. A non-refluxing technique together with a ureteral nipple or submucosal tunnel method, is preferable as it minimizes vesico-ureteral reflux and the risk of infection. In order to cover a longer distance, ureteroneocystostomy in combination with a psoas hitch (covering 6-10 cm of defect) or a Boari flap (covering 12-15 cm) is often adopted. Among various ureteral replacement procedures, only intestinal ureteral substitution, which includes ileal ureter, appendiceal interposition and reconfigured colon substitution, has gained wide acceptance when urothelial tissue is insufficient. Ileal ureter can be used to replace the ureter of >15 cm defect and even to replace the entire unbilateral ureter or bilateral ureter. Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques are increasingly being employed for ureteral reconstruction and adopted with encouraging results.

Prognostic imaging of iatrogenic and traumatic ureteral injury by near-infrared fluorescence

Background

Iatrogenic or traumatic ureteral injuries are life-threatening but difficult to diagnose early. Ureteral visualization is essential for both the prevention and diagnosis of iatrogenic or traumatic ureter injuries. In the present study, we evaluated the feasibility of near-infrared (NIR) with ZW800-1C as a diagnostic tool of iatrogenic or traumatic ureteral injury in addition to ureter visualization, compared to methylene blue.

Methods

With mice model, we compared the image quality of ZW800-1C with methylene blue for ureter visualization. We also made ureter perforation, obstruction, crushing injury, and transection model with mice and evaluated the feasibility of ZW800-1C for diagnostic tool for ureteral injuries.

Results

We could confirm the ureter in the ZW800-1C images in maximally 30 minutes after injection, and the ureter was visible until NIR imaging concluded at 180 minutes after injection. However, methylene blue failed to provide clear ureter imaging during the same period. ZW800-1C imaging successfully visualized ureters subjected to obstruction, transection, perforation, and crush injuries, although urinary leakage was not visible by eye.

Conclusions

Our results indicate ZW800-1C is better suited for ureter visualization than methylene blue and that ZW800-1C has considerable potential for the early diagnosis of various ureteral injuries.

[Management of ureteral injuries]

Ureteral injuries account for less than 3% of genitourinary injuries. Most of them are caused iatrogenically during abdominal surgery. The symptoms are often non-specific and do not aid in diagnosis. The later the injury is detected, the more often complications occur. Therefore, in such situations it is important to consider the possibility of ureteral injury and initiate further diagnostic steps as soon as possible. A variety of diagnostic tests are available. In addition to the direct inspection of the ureters and retrograde ureteropyelography, computed tomography (CT) urography is routinely used. Based on the time of diagnosis as well as the extent and the localization of the injury, the further procedure can be determined. For minor injuries, the insertion of a ureteral splint is usually the treatment of choice. In the case of higher grade damage, operative reconstruction by one of several possible surgical procedures is indicated.

An Isolated Ureteropelvic Junction Injury Following a Low-impact Mechanical Fall

OBJECTIVE

To describe the presentation of a rare isolated ureteropelvic junction injury resulting from a mechanical fall on ice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A 71-year-old previously healthy man presented to the emergency department at the University of Massachusetts Medical School 3 hours following falling on ice with complaints of gross hematuria and flank pain. Patient records were accessed via the institution's electronic medical records system between March 22, 2018 and April 22, 2018.

RESULTS

Abdominal imaging revealed urinary extravasation without evidence of accompanying injury to surrounding structures, confirming an isolated left ureteropelvic junction injury.

CONCLUSION

Isolated ureteral injury following low-impact blunt abdominal trauma is exceedingly rare. Furthermore, this patient's presentation challenges the accepted conventions for both mechanism of injury and accompanying clinical factors in ureteral trauma.

Delayed Diagnosis of Ureteral Injury Following Penetrating Abdominal Trauma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

BACKGROUND Ureteral injuries are considered to be uncommon in cases of trauma. The possibility of damage to the ureters may not be considered in the setting of acute trauma when life-threatening injuries take clinical management priority. A case of acute ureteral injury is described in a patient with acute penetrating gunshot abdominal injury that had a delay in diagnosis, with a review of the literature. CASE REPORT A 29-year-old woman presented to our hospital with a missed ureteral injury following a self-inflicted gunshot injury to the abdomen. She underwent abdominal computed tomography (CT) imaging and a retrograde pyelogram, which showed complete transection of the left upper ureter with contrast extravasation and the formation of a large urinoma. She underwent a percutaneous nephrostomy and drainage of the urinoma. An end-to-end ureteric anastomosis with excision of the intervening injured ureter, or ureteroureterostomy, was performed three weeks following the diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Ureteral injuries following trauma are rare, but a delay in diagnosis can be associated with clinical morbidity. A high index of clinical suspicion is important for early identification of ureteral injury in cases of acute abdominal trauma.

[Results of conservative surgical management of ureteral injuries]

INTRODUCTION

The ureter is a retroperitoneal organ. Ureteral injuries are rare, with a prevalence of 0.083% of surgical interventions over 10 years. The objective of this study was to evaluate the surgical management of ureteric injuries according to the time of discovery, their size and their location. We also evaluated the results of this management on the renal repercussion as well as the predictive factors of the severity of the ureteric injuries.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a monocentric retrospective study carried out on the basis of a systematic review of the CHU surgery files.

RESULTS

The average follow-up was 30 months. The average hospital stay was 8 days. Thirty-four patients (73.9%) underwent initial endoscopic management by attempting a double J probe. Only 20 patients received this double J probe and only 11 patients (55%) did not recidivate the ureteral injury with a median duration of maintenance of the double J probe of 90 days (28-240). Thirty-five patients received open surgical management (76.1%). We found 57% ureterovesical reimplantations (n=20), corresponding to pelvic ureteral injuries (n=32). We also found 20% of nephrectomies. No patient had recurrence of the ureteral injury. Eight patients had secondary dilatation of the pyelocalicious cavities (28.57%). The success of surgical treatment was therefore 57%.

CONCLUSION

The management of surgically treated ureter injuries provides good results but remains relatively diversified due to the different lesion levels. It was effective in 57% of cases including nephrectomies as failure of treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Trauma to the bladder and ureter: a review of diagnosis, management, and prognosis

BACKGROUND

Injuries to the ureter or bladder are relatively rare. Therefore, a high level of clinical suspicion and knowledge of operative anatomy is of utmost importance for their management. Herein, a review of the literature related to the modern diagnosis, management, and prognosis for bladder and ureteral injuries is presented.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted through PubMed. A thorough search of the world's literature published in English was completed. Search terms included "injury, diagnosis, prognosis, and management for ureter and bladder". All years, both genders, as well as penetrating, blunt, and iatrogenic mechanisms were evaluated for inclusion. Following PRISMA guidelines, studies were selected based on relevance and then categorized.

RESULTS

172 potentially relevant studies were identified. Given our focus on modern diagnosis and treatment, we then narrowed the studies in each category to those published within the last 30 years, resulting in a total of 26 studies largely consisting of Level IV retrospective case series. Our review found that bladder ruptures occur from penetrating, blunt, or iatrogenic mechanisms, and most are extraperitoneal (63%). Ureteral injuries are incurred from penetrating mechanisms in 77% of cases. The overall mortality rates for bladder rupture and ureteral injury were 8 and 7%, respectively.

LIMITATIONS

Limitations of this article are similar to all PRISMA-guided review articles: the dependence on previously published research and availability of references.

CONCLUSION

The bladder is injured far more often than the ureter but ureteral injuries have higher injury severity. Both of these organs can be damaged by penetrating, blunt, or iatrogenic mechanisms and surgical intervention is often required for severe ureter or bladder injuries. Since symptoms of these injuries may not always be apparent, a high level of suspicion is required for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Use of a Boari flap and renal descensus as treatment for proximal ureteral rupture in a cat

CASE DESCRIPTION A 6-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was evaluated because of signs of abdominal pain and anuria of 12 hours' duration after vehicular trauma. CLINICAL FINDINGS Lethargy, mydriasis, bradycardia, abdominal distension, and signs of pain on abdominal palpation were observed. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed moderate urinary bladder distension without evidence of free abdominal fluid; hematologic evaluation revealed leukocytosis with high BUN and serum creatinine concentrations. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME The patient was hospitalized, medical stabilization was attempted, and an indwelling urinary catheter was placed. Urinary output was < 1 mL/kg/h (< 0.45 mL/lb/h), and signs of abdominal pain persisted despite treatment. The next day, ultrasonographic examination revealed fluid in the retroperitoneal space, and ureteral rupture was suspected. Exploratory laparotomy confirmed retroperitoneal fluid accumulation; a large hematoma surrounded the right kidney and perirenal structures. An abdominal drain was placed to aid patient stabilization. Three days later, IV pyelography revealed rupture of the proximal part of the right ureter. Ureteroneocystostomy was performed with elongated cystoplasty through a Boari flap and caudal transposition of the right kidney (renal descensus). On follow-up examination 18 months after treatment, the cat was free of clinical signs, and results of ultrasonography, CBC, and serum biochemical analysis were unremarkable. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that a Boari flap procedure with renal descensus could be a feasible alternative in the management of proximal ureteral rupture in cats, but research is needed in this area.

Imaging Genitourinary Trauma

Contrast-enhanced multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) has become a critical tool in the evaluation of the trauma patient. MDCT can quickly and accurately assess trauma patients for renal, ureteral, and bladder injuries. Moreover, CT guides clinical management triaging patients to those requiring discharge, observation, angioembolization, and surgery. Recognition of urinary tract trauma on initial scan acquisition should prompt delayed excretory phase imaging to identify urine leaks. Urethral and testicular trauma are imaged with retrograde urethrography and sonography, respectively.

Genitourinary trauma in geriatric patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The geriatric population is the fastest growing segment of the population, and geriatric trauma patients are increasingly common. Caring for this population has unique challenges. The goal of the review is to identify factors that may help in the care of geriatric patients suffering from genitourinary trauma.

RECENT FINDINGS

Multiple factors lead to inferior outcomes in patients with geriatric trauma including failure to rescue, treatment in lower volume trauma centers, and undertriage of geriatric patients. Improvement in geriatric trauma outcomes occurs with the use of dedicated geriatric consult teams. The surgical management of genitourinary injuries in the geriatric population remains unchanged.

SUMMARY

Interventions for geriatric patients differ from younger populations. Direct changes in overall management of the geriatric population lead to improved outcomes. The treatment of geriatric trauma patients with genitourinary injuries is similar to a younger cohort. The lack of recent studies in clinical outcomes in this population has been identified as a gap in knowledge that will require future research to answer.

[Endoscopic management of postoperative ureteral wound. Retrospective unicentric study from October 2003 to June 2014]

BACKGROUND

Ureteral wounds are rare with an incidence of 0.5 to 1% of pelvic surgeries. Their supports and their prognosis remain dependant of the period of support and the level of ureteral lesion. The importance of early treatment reduces morbidity and improves patient prognosis.

METHODS

A retrospective study from October 2003 to June 2014 was performed in a university hospital using a systematic chart review of patients' urology, digestive surgery, vascular surgery and gynecology.

RESULTS

Forty-six wounds were found in 43 patients. The majority of the ureteral wound was found at the pelvic ureter, i.e. 69.6% of the study population (n=32). The main cause was gynecological surgery (n=25). In the simple wound group, endoscopic treatment was effective in nearly 90% of cases (n=6). In the other two groups, the efficacy was only 30% and imposed a surgical treatment as second-line.

CONCLUSION

The management is based primarily on early detection or intraoperative, and on a correct initial knowledge of the location and size of the lesion. Endoscopic treatment can in most cases treated with a simple and minimally invasive operation an ureteral wound with nearly 90% success rate. In more complex wounds, endoscopy remains a step in the management with about 30% success rate in our study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5.

[Infectious diseases and injuries of bladder and urinary tract]

Urinary tract infections are the most common infectious diseases in Germany. In most cases clarification does not rely on imaging techniques other than sonography and is made mostly based on clinical symptoms. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used in selected cases to find the cause and detection or exclusion of complications, e.g. recurrent or atypical and complicated courses. The method of choice for clarification of urolithiasis is CT. Using low-dose techniques, detection or exclusion of urinary stones can be achieved with a high sensitivity and specificity as well as an acceptable level of radiation exposure. Native stone CT supplies additional fundamental information that can substantially influence further therapy planning. The diagnosis of ureteral injuries is clinically and radiologically not trivial and clarification is aided by urographic contrast media. The method of CT cystography has an important role in the diagnostics of urinary bladder injuries.

Penetrating Trauma to the Ureter, Bladder, and Urethra

We describe the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of adult civilian penetrating trauma to the ureter, bladder, and urethra. Trauma is a significant source of death and morbidity. Genitourinary injuries are present in 10% of penetrating trauma cases. Prompt recognition and appropriate management of genitourinary injuries, which are often masked or overlooked due to concomitant injuries, is essential to minimize morbidity. Penetrating trauma most commonly results from gunshot wounds or stab wounds. Compared to blunt trauma, these typically require surgical exploration. An understanding of anatomy and a high index of suspicion are necessary for prompt recognition of genitourinary injuries.

Penetrating bladder trauma: a high risk factor for associated rectal injury

Demographics and mechanisms were analyzed in prospectively maintained level one trauma center database 1990-2012. Among 2,693 trauma laparotomies, 113 (4.1%) presented bladder lesions; 51.3% with penetrating injuries (n = 58); 41.3% (n = 24) with rectal injuries, males corresponding to 95.8%, mean age 29.8 years; 79.1% with gunshot wounds and 20.9% with impalement; 91.6% arriving the emergence room awake (Glasgow 14-15), hemodynamically stable (average systolic blood pressure 119.5 mmHg); 95.8% with macroscopic hematuria; and 100% with penetrating stigmata. Physical exam was not sensitive for rectal injuries, showing only 25% positivity in patients. While 60% of intraperitoneal bladder injuries were surgically repaired, extraperitoneal ones were mainly repaired using Foley catheter alone (87.6%). Rectal injuries, intraperitoneal in 66.6% of the cases and AAST-OIS grade II in 45.8%, were treated with primary suture plus protective colostomy; 8.3% were sigmoid injuries, and 70.8% of all injuries had a minimum stool spillage. Mean injury severity score was 19; mean length of stay 10 days; 20% of complications with no death. Concomitant rectal injuries were not a determinant prognosis factor. Penetrating bladder injuries are highly associated with rectal injuries (41.3%). Heme-negative rectal examination should not preclude proctoscopy and eventually rectal surgical exploration (only 25% sensitivity).