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Balloon dilatation of bilharzial ureteric strictures
Insights
Balloon dilatation offers a promising treatment for bilharzial ureteric strictures, providing symptomatic and urographic relief. This minimally invasive procedure demonstrates effectiveness in relieving urinary obstruction caused by the parasitic disease.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Parasitology
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Bilharzial ureteric strictures represent a significant complication of schistosomiasis.
- These strictures can lead to severe urinary obstruction and renal damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of balloon dilatation for treating bilharzial ureteric strictures.
- To assess the safety and long-term outcomes of this interventional procedure.
Main Methods:
- Nine patients with bilharzial ureteric strictures underwent balloon dilatation.
- Procedures included percutaneous antegrade (n=6) and cystoscopic (n=3) approaches.
- Guide wire negotiation failed in four patients prior to intervention.
Main Results:
- All patients who underwent balloon dilatation achieved symptomatic and urographic relief.
- Follow-up ranged from 3 to 38 months (mean 19 months).
- One patient required re-dilatation after 24 months, remaining symptom-free for 18 months post-procedure.
Conclusions:
- Balloon dilatation is a promising and effective minimally invasive treatment for bilharzial ureteric strictures.
- The procedure offers a viable alternative to more invasive surgical interventions.
- Sustained relief and successful re-dilatation support the long-term utility of balloon dilatation.
Abstract:
Balloon dilatation was performed in nine patients with bilharzial ureteric strictures. In six patients a percutaneous, antegrade approach was used and in three a balloon catheter was introduced into the ureter via a cystoscope. In another four patients, negotiation of the strictured area with a guide wire failed. In all dilated patients, symptomatic and urographic relief of the obstruction was obtained during follow-up periods of 3 to 38 months (mean 19). One patient was re-dilated after 24 months and has remained symptom-free for a further 18 months. Balloon dilatation seems to be a promising method of treating this condition.