Neobladder formation after pelvic irradiation
Richard E Hautmann1, Robert de Petriconi, Bjoern G Volkmer
1Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ulm, Prittwitzstrasse 43, 89075, Ulm, Germany. richard.hautmann@uniklinik-ulm.de
Ileal neobladder reconstruction after pelvic radiation is a safe and effective salvage surgery for select patients. While early complications occurred more frequently, severe complications and incontinence were manageable, offering good functional outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Surgical Oncology
- Radiation Oncology
Background:
- Pelvic irradiation can compromise bladder function, necessitating advanced reconstructive techniques.
- Radical cystectomy with ileal neobladder is a complex procedure with potential complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the outcomes of ileal neobladder reconstruction in patients previously treated with pelvic radiation.
- To assess complication rates and functional results in this specific patient cohort.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 1,570 radical cystectomies and 1,002 ileal neobladders.
- Identification of 25 patients with prior pelvic irradiation who underwent ileal neobladder construction.
- Complications graded using a modified Clavien system; functional and late outcomes were reported.
Main Results:
- 76% of neobladder patients experienced early complications vs. 52% of non-neobladder patients.
- Severe (grade 3-5) early complications were less frequent in the neobladder group.
- 19/25 neobladder patients achieved excellent daytime and nighttime continence; some experienced severe stress incontinence or hypercontinence.
Conclusions:
- Orthotopic lower urinary tract reconstruction with ileal neobladder is a safe and effective salvage option for selected patients with radiation-compromised bladders.
- Key prerequisites include good renal function, preoperative continence, absence of recurrent tumors, and no severe bowel damage.
- This procedure can restore a well-functioning lower urinary tract in patients with bladder cancer after radiation therapy.
Related Concept Videos
Kidney Transplant II: Surgical Procedure
Imaging Studies VI: Voiding Cystourethrography and Cystography
Urinary Bladder
In males, the bladder is situated in front of the rectum, while in females, it is positioned anterior to the vagina and uterus. The bladder floor contains an inverted triangular area called the trigone, defined by the two ureteric...
Anatomy of the Genitourinary System II: Bladder and Urethra
Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies

