[Ureterocalicostomy: indications and results based on a series of 16 patients]

Formerly considered to be a salvage or last resort technique before nephrectomy, ureterocalicostomy can be indicated in certain well defined situations, when strictly dependent drainage of urine is essential. Due to its particular indications, this procedure is rarely performed and operators have limited experience. The authors report 17 cases of ureterocalicostomy performed in 16 patients: 8 cases obtained an excellent long-term result with absence of clinical signs, urinary tract infection and proximal dilatation of the neo-junction. 4 cases obtained a good result with resolution of clinical symptoms and bacteriological signs and improvement of the dilatation on intravenous urography. 3 cases obtained a poor result with persistence of clinical symptoms and dilatation on intravenous urography. 2 nephrectomies were subsequently performed 4 years and 10 years after ureterocalicostomy for non-functioning kidney and for chronic pyelonephritis.