Long-term functional outcomes after ileal ureter substitution: a single-center experience

To assess the indications and outcomes of ileal ureter replacement for ureteral reconstruction, which remains a technique of choice in certain cases, notably when the ureter has been injured.

A retrospective review of the data from patients treated with ureteroileoplasty from 1980 to 2010 was performed. The following data were analyzed: age, etiology of ureter injury, and pre- and postoperative creatinine levels. Follow-up visits occurred at 3 and 6 months postoperatively and at least annually thereafter.

A total of 17 patients with a median age of 43 years were included. The main etiology of the ureteral defect was an iatrogenic ureteral injury after a urologic procedure (n=6). The mean length of hospital stay was 12.4±8 days (range 7-26). Four major complications (grade 3) and 5 minor complications (grade 2) developed. The median follow-up time was 174 months. The mean creatinine level before surgery, at 1 month after surgery, and at the last follow-up visit was 1.3±0.3 mg/dL (range 0.6-3.4), 1.4±0.4 mg/dL (range 0.6-3.6), and 1.8±0.6 mg/dL (range 0.7-4.7), respectively. By the end of the follow-up period, 15 patients still had ileal ureters. Of these, 3 required dialysis.

The indications for an ileal ureter have evolved in recent years. The ileal ureter appears to remain a reasonable option for ureteral reconstruction to preserve long-term renal function.