Prognostic factors in the management of ureteric injuries

The outcome of 137 ureteric injuries was analysed with respect to previous radiotherapy, site, type and length of the injury and time of treatment, to evaluate the prognostic significance of each of these factors. The length of the injury was the most important prognosticator of treatment outcome (P = < 0.0005). Previous radiotherapy and timing of treatment had prognostic significance (P = < 0.05) but the predictive value seemed to be linked to the frequent association with injury length. The site and the type of injury had no prognostic significance. The unfavourable prognostic significance of extensive injury length appeared to be related to the treatment procedures (urinary diversions) which in themselves carry a high failure rate. Knowledge of the impact of these factors on the outcome of ureteric injuries is valuable in choosing the best treatment option for each patient.