Management of persistent urine leak after partial nephrectomy: A case series

Urinary leak is one of the most significant complications after partial nephrectomy. In case of persistent urine leaks, placement of a ureteral stent is effective but not always sufficient. This study included 5 patients with persistent urinary leak after partial nephrectomy. The patients underwent flexible ureteroscopy wherein we identified the damaged calyx. Subsequently, we performed percutaneous puncture targeting the distal end of the endoscope at this calyx and installed a nephrostomy tube. Then, the endoscope was removed, and the ureter was drained with a stent. Ureteral stenting ensures elimination of urinary leak in most patients after partial nephrectomy. In patients with persistent urinary leak, retrograde endoscopic percutaneous drainage of the pelvicalyceal system is the method of choice because it allows for rapid and effective treatment of urinary fistulas.