Vesico-ureteric reflux after renal transplantation

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Nephrology
• Transplantation Immunology

Background:

• Renal transplantation is a life-saving procedure for end-stage renal disease.
• Complications such as urinary tract infections can impact graft survival.
• Vesicoureteral reflux is a known risk factor for urinary infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the incidence of urinary infections in renal transplant recipients.
• To assess the role of vesicoureteral reflux in post-transplant infections.
• To determine the impact of ureteral implantation techniques on infection rates.

Main Methods:

• Micturating cystography was performed on 20 renal transplant patients.
• Intravenous pyelograms were utilized in 13 patients to assess the upper urinary tract.
• Vesicoureteral reflux was assessed in both native and transplanted ureters.

Main Results:

• Persistent urinary infection was absent in patients without vesicoureteral reflux.
• Patients with reflux in their native or transplanted ureters experienced persistent infections.
• No infections occurred when reflux affected the tunneled transplanted ureter, unlike two cases without tunnel implants.

Conclusions:

• Vesicoureteral reflux is a significant factor in persistent urinary infections post-renal transplantation.
• The technique of tunneling the transplanted ureter is crucial in preventing infections, even in the presence of reflux.
• Ureteral implantation technique plays a vital role in managing post-transplant urinary complications.