Transrenal ureteral occlusion with a detachable balloon

Transrenal ureteral occlusion using a detachable balloon was successfully employed to stop urinary flow in seven patients. The balloon was filled with low-viscosity silicone rubber and released in the distal ureter. Percutaneous nephrostomy provided external drainage. Indications were painful dysuria and large urinary fistulas in advanced pelvic malignancy. The method is preferable to ureteral embolization with tissue adhesive.