Orthotopic ileal bladder substitution following radical cystectomy using the linear-cutter stapling device

We evaluated the safety, efficacy, and potential benefits of using the linear-cutter staplers in the ileal reanastomosis and ileal pouch reconstruction following radical cystectomy in patients with invasive carcinoma of the urinary bladder. Radical cystectomy and orthotopic ileal bladder substitution procedures were performed in 40 patients with invasive carcinoma of the urinary bladder. In 20 patients the linear- cutter stapling device was used for the ileo-ilial reanastomosis and reconstruction of the pouch, while in the other 20 patients the standard hand-suturing technique was used. Using the linear-cutter stapler in the ileo-ileal reanastromasis and ileal pouch reconstruction saved approximately 60 to 90 minutes of operative time, and there was also a significant reduction of blood loss during this period. The leakage rate and hospital stay were less in patients with a stapled pouch. Urodynamic characteristics were comparable to standard ileal neobladders.