Management of persistent urine leak after partial nephrectomy: A case series
Bakhman Guliev1,2, Boris Komyakov1, Maksim Shevnin1,2
1Department of Urology, North-Western State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia.
Current Urology
|August 23, 2024
Summary
Persistent urinary leaks after partial nephrectomy can be challenging. This study shows retrograde endoscopic percutaneous drainage is an effective treatment for persistent urine leaks, complementing ureteral stenting.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Nephrology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Urinary leak is a significant complication following partial nephrectomy.
- Ureteral stent placement is a common treatment but may not resolve persistent urine leaks.
Observation:
- A novel technique involving flexible ureteroscopy to identify the damaged calyx was employed.
- Percutaneous puncture targeting the calyx, guided by the endoscope, was performed to install a nephrostomy tube.
Findings:
- This retrograde endoscopic percutaneous drainage method, combined with ureteral stenting, effectively managed persistent urinary leaks in 5 patients.
- The procedure allowed for rapid identification and drainage of the pelvicalyceal system.
Implications:
- Retrograde endoscopic percutaneous drainage offers a valuable, effective treatment option for refractory urinary fistulas post-partial nephrectomy.
- This minimally invasive approach can expedite recovery and improve outcomes for patients experiencing persistent urine leaks.


