Balloon dilation of ureteral strictures after renal transplantation

Ten ureteral strictures that developed in nine patients after renal transplantation were managed with balloon catheter dilation and placement of a ureteral stent. Four strictures were successfully dilated (40%), with a follow-up of 15-42 months (mean, 29 months). Comparison of these cases with the six cases of unsuccessfully dilated strictures failed to show any substantial differences between the groups with respect to demographics, stricture characteristics, or radiologic management techniques. However, strictures that developed at the ureteroneocystostomy site responded favorably more often (three of four strictures) to balloon catheter dilation than did strictures in other locations. The authors' experience is not as favorable as that of others who have managed renal transplant-related ureteral strictures in a similar manner. Nonetheless, their experience reinforces the efficacy of balloon catheter dilation of ureteral strictures that develop after renal transplantation as an effective alternative to surgical revision in a substantial percentage of patients.