Hellström technique revisited: laparoscopic management of ureteropelvic junction obstruction

To present our experience with the treatment of adult ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction using a laparoscopic Hellström vascular relocation technique.

Transperitoneal laparoscopy was performed in 35 patients for the management of UPJ obstruction. In 9 cases, we identified crossing lower pole vessels and performed the Hellström technique. We discuss our indications, intraoperative techniques, and outcomes when performing only vascular relocation in these patients.

All 9 patients presented with long-standing flank pain and were identified as having UPJ obstruction (7 primary, 2 secondary) on radiographic imaging. The intraoperative decision to perform the Hellström technique was based on the presence of the crossing vessels, a grossly normal appearance of the ureter and UPJ, and a small renal pelvis. The crossing vessels were completely mobilized, displaced cephalad, and fixed using intracorporeal sutures. The mean operative time and blood loss was 164 minutes and 15 mL, respectively. At a mean follow-up of 19 months (range 14 to 31), the patients were asymptomatic with no evidence of obstruction on Lasix nuclear renography.

Traditional treatment of UPJ obstruction, with or without crossing vessels, has been accomplished by pyeloplasty. Dismembered pyeloplasty is a standard method in cases of associated crossing vessels; however, we propose that the Hellström technique be considered in cases in which the ureter appears normal and the pelvic anatomy is unfavorable for transection and anterior reanastomosis of the ureter and pelvis. These considerations are particularly relevant during the laparoscopic approach in which intracorporeal suturing and knot tying are technically challenging.