Ureterosigmoidostomy: reevaluation of a "forgotten" continent urinary diversion

Between 1978 and 1983 we performed 19 ureterosigmoidostomies (25% of all urinary diversions). We try to realise a reevaluation of this technique by means of clinical data, laboratory findings, U.S.- and X-ray examinations. The mean follow-up time is 7.5 years. All patients mention a comfortable life-style. By routine administration of sodium bicarbonate, no electrolyte disturbances occur. Only 5 kidneys (on a total of 32 renal units) show major deformities. Colon carcinoma is not reported. Since the introduction of the ileal conduit by Bricker in 1950 (1), together with the repeatedly published higher incidence of colon carcinoma (2), a certain revulsion for the traditional Coffey-technique arose. Yet there are some important advantages in this peculiar surgical method. We think that, after a rather premature condemnation, the time is ripe for a reevaluation and a reevaluation of the ureterosigmoidostomy.