Ileal replacement of the bilharzial ureter

Our 14 years experience with the use of isolated ileal segments, for replacement of the bilharzial ureter is retrospectively analyzed. Fifty two patients were subjected to this procedure. Follow up data are available for 38 patients in whom 52 ureters were repaired. The results are generally unsatisfactory because of the high rate of morbidity and mortality and the low percentage of functional improvement. The risk is higher in those with low creatinine clearance. We recommend avoiding this operation as far as possible. If the operation is unavoidable tapering of the ileal segment with antireflux ileovesical anastomosis may improve the outcome, although this has to be proved