Surgery of the horseshoe kidney--an experience of 24 patients

A decade (1973-83) of surgical experience in the management of the diseases of horseshoe kidney is presented. Calculus disease was the major pathological entity (80%) followed by ureteropelvic junction obstruction, nephrocarcinoma and polycystic disease, respectively. Three patients with calculi had, in addition, pyonephrosis and squamous cell carcinoma. Aortography offers maximum information about abnormal vasculature and other anatomical details in proper planning of surgical intervention. It is felt that a symphysiotomy and nephropexy may be considered when the horseshoe kidneys are being operated for calculus disease.