External ureteroneocystostomy and ureteroureterostomy in renal transplantation

Reported are 204 primary external ureteroneocystostomies and 16 primary ureteroureterostomies in a series of 220 consecutive renal transplants. A total of 12 (5%) complications occurred; however, only seven (3%) required major operative repair, whereas five (2%) were minor and were repaired by cystoscopic or transvesical procedures. There was no mortality and no allograft loss from these complications, which tend to occur late and be amenable to prompt repair. Since the complications of external ureteroneocystostomy differ from those of the internal ureteroneocystostomy, a discussion of their treatment is provided. A review of literature shows that the external repair is growing in popularity because of its good results. The good results are attributable to the use of a short length of ureter, to the use of a continuous monofilament suture that produces an anastomosis less likely to leak, and to the need of a very small cystostomy.