Acetylcysteine for urinary tract mucolysis

The use of acetylcysteine is described for the relief of mucinous obstruction of the distal ureter after a mid ureteral replacement with ileum. Acetylcysteine (300 cc of 1 per cent) was instilled at low pressure via a nephrostomy tube following documentation of the obstruction with a nephrostogram. Patency of the ureter was achieved within 5 minutes. Re-obstruction ensued but it resolved with repeat percutaneous instillation of acetylcysteine. Patency, confirmed by a followup nuclear renogram at 4 months, has been maintained with 700 mg. acetylcysteine orally 4 times a day.