Ureteral reflux and ileal conduit pressure following diversion with a reflux-preventing technique

Ileal conduit urinary diversion was performed with an antireflux technique, with nippling of the ureters into the segment, in 63 patients. The patients were then followed up for 52 +/- 25 months concerning urographic findings, infections and kidney function. Ureteroileal stenosis developed in 3 of 122 ureters and was surgically corrected. Roentgenologic examination for ureteral reflux was performed about a year postoperatively, and pressure measurements were made in the ileal segment. Reflux of contrast medium was seen in 48 ureters at pressure 51 +/- 30 mm Hg. When no reflux was seen, the maximum infusion pressure was 62 +/- 34 mm Hg. The basal pressure (preceding contrast infusion) was 24 +/- 29 mm Hg. Regular contraction waves with pressure rise in the ileal segment were registered, with duration 10-30 seconds. The study showed no connection between ureteral reflux and pressure in the ileal segment. Complications associated with the antireflux operating technique were few.