Ureterosigmoidostomy

With all of the recent attention focused on obtaining an internalized form of urinary diversion, the use of ureterosigmoidostomy is often overlooked. In spite of the many potential complications associated with this procedure, with recent improvements in surgical technique, the availability of antibiotics, and a better understanding of physiology of the colon, these formerly life-threatening complications can now be minimized. We believe the use of ureterosigmoidostomy should not be overlooked in the individual in whom an internalized form of urinary diversion is desirable. In the properly motivated patient with rectal continence, who is free of intrinsic renal disease and does not have ureteral dilation, ureterosigmoidostomy can be expected to be a highly successful form of urinary diversion.