Simplified approach to percutaneous endopyelotomy

The purpose of this report was to describe a safe, simple, and rapid approach to percutaneous antegrade endopyelotomy. In contrast to standard percutaneous endopyelotomy techniques, in this procedure, the endopyelotomy stent is placed at the outset. The endopyelotomy incision is then made with an acorn-tipped Bugbee electrode directly down onto the stent, in a manner analogous to a ureteral meatotomy in the bladder. The advantage of this approach is twofold. Primary placement of the stent helps to define the appropriate site and direction for the endopyelotomy incision, allowing marsupialization of the proximal ureter into the renal pelvis. Use of this technique also obviates the need to pass a large-caliber stent after the endopyelotomy incision has been made, thereby avoiding a potential risk of ureteropelvic junction disruption. Clinical and radiographic follow-up was available in 29 (76%) of 38 patients who underwent this procedure. Success, defined as a resolution of symptoms and decrease in calicectasis, was achieved in 24 (83%) of the 29 patients. We have found primary placement of an endopyelotomy stent and use of electrocautery as a cutting mode safely facilitates a precise endopyelotomy incision.