A three-centre experience of orthotopic neobladder reconstruction after radical cystectomy: initial results

To assess, in a retrospective three-centre series, the initial experience and results of patients undergoing radical cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder reconstruction.

The medical records were retrospectively reviewed for 104 suitable consecutive patients undergoing radical cystectomy and orthotopic neobladder reconstruction between June 1994 and April 2003. The initial histology, operating times, transfusion rates, complications, mortality rates, continence rates, potency rates, and cancer control rates were recorded.

The median (range) follow-up was 48 (6-113) months; 90 patients had a reconstruction with a 'Studer' neobladder, 12 with a 'Hautmann W pouch' and two with a 'T pouch' ileal neobladder. There were 24 early complications, and in eight patients re-operation was required; there was one death after surgery. There were 14 late complications and 10 patients required re-operation. The daytime continence rate was 99% and the nocturnal continence rate 78%. Five patients required intermittent self-catheterization. Twenty-two patients died from local and/or distant recurrences, and four from other causes.

Orthotopic neobladder reconstruction provides excellent continence rates, and both acceptable complication and mortality rates. Suitable patients undergoing radical cystectomy should be offered orthotopic neobladder reconstruction.