Effects of delayed ureteral stents removal during the COVID-19 pandemic on the quality of life and psychological status of postoperative patients with urinary calculi / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To explore the impacts of delayed ureteral stent removal on the quality of life (QoL) and mental health of urinary calculi postoperative patients due to the corona virus disease 2019(COVID-19) pandemic.@*METHODS@#The demographic and clinical data of patients with ureteral stent placement after urinary endoscopic lithotripsy and returned to Peking University People's Hospital for stent removal from December 2019 to June 2020 were collected. Ureteral stent symptoms questionnaire (USSQ) score and the outcome 20-item self-rating anxiety scale (SAS) and self-rating depression scale (SDS) were collected to estimate the QoL and mental status. The USSQ consisted of 44 questions in 6 domains (including urinary symptom, physical pain, general health, work performance, sexual function, and ureteral stent related infection). For most questions in each domain, its score was a five-point Likert-type scale from 1 to 5, and a small proportion of questions was quantified by 1 to 4 or 1 to 7 scale. SAS and SDS both contained 20 questions used to assess a patient's level of anxiety and depression. Its scoring for each item was on a four-point Likert-type scale from 1 to 4. A total score (ranging from 20 to 80) was the main statistical indicator. The level of clinical anxiety and depression was quantified by using standard scores (total score multiplied by 1.25 to produce integers). And the multi-group structural equation model was constructed by analysis of moment structure (AMOS) analysis.@*RESULTS@#Overall, 71 patients were enrolled for analysis. It was found that the median duration of ureteral stent time differed significantly between the control and delayed groups for 32 (30, 33) d and 94.5 (88, 103) d, respectively. The delayed group resulted in higher scores in the USSQ multidimensional, which included urinary symptoms, general health, work performance and ureteral stent related infections. Anxiety and depression were also significantly serious in the delayed group than in the control group. A longer indwelling time of a ureteral stent could exacerbate the effects of urinary symptoms and physical pain on work performance (P=0.029 < 0.05). Among them, the patients with severe urinary symptoms leading to poor work performance were most significantly affected by prolonged ureteral stent duration time (CR=2.619>1.96).@*CONCLUSION@#Patients with delayed ureteral stent removal due to the COVID-19 had resulted in worse QoL and mental status. Stents related symptoms are more severe in patients with higher anxiety and depression degree during COVID-19. To improve the QoL and mental health of patients after urinary calculi surgery during COVID-19, it is still not recommended to prolong the stent duration time or corresponding intervention measures should be taken.

Robotic urologic surgery using the KangDuo-Surgical Robot-01 system: A single-center prospective analysis / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#The KangDuo-Surgical Robot-01 (KD-SR-01) system is a new surgical robot recently developed in China. The aim of this study was to present our single-center experience and mid-term outcomes of urological procedures using the KD-SR-01 system.@*METHODS@#From August 2020 to April 2023, consecutive urologic procedures were performed at Peking University First Hospital using the KD-SR-01 system. The clinical features, perioperative data, and follow-up outcomes were prospectively collected and analyzed.@*RESULTS@#A total of 110 consecutive patients were recruited. Among these patients, 28 underwent partial nephrectomy (PN), 41 underwent urinary tract reconstruction (26 underwent pyeloplasty, 3 underwent ureteral reconstruction and 12 underwent ureterovesical reimplantation [UR]), and 41 underwent radical prostatectomy (RP). The median operative time for PN was 112.5 min, 157.0 min for pyeloplasty, 151.0 min for ureteral reconstruction, 142.5 min for UR, and 138.0 min for RP. The median intraoperative blood loss was 10 mL for PN, 10 mL for pyeloplasty, 30 mL for ureteral reconstruction, 20 mL for UR, and 50 mL for RP. All procedures were successfully completed without conversion, and there were no major complications in any patient. The median warm ischemia time of PN was 17.3 min, and positive surgical margin was not noted in any patient. The overall positive surgical margin rate of RP was 39% (16/41), and no biochemical recurrence was observed in any RP patient during the median follow-up of 11.0 months. The surgical success rates of pyeloplasty and UR were 96% (25/26) and 92% (11/12) during the median follow-up of 29.5 months and 11.5 months, respectively.@*CONCLUSION@#The KD-SR-01 system appears feasible, safe, and effective for most urological procedures, based on our single-center experience.

Intravenous infusion of methylene blue to visualize the ureter in laparoscopic colorectal surgery / 中华胃肠外科杂志

Objective: Intraoperative localization of the ureter can contribute to accurate dissection and minimize ureteral injury in colorectal surgery. We aim to summarize a single center's experience of fluorescence ureteral visualization using methylene blue (MB) and explore its visualization efficiency. Methods: This is a descriptive case-series-study. Clinical data of patients who had undergone laparoscopic colorectal surgery and fluorescence visualization of the ureter in the Gastrointestinal Surgery Department of Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital from March 2022 to May 2022 were retrospectively collected. Patients with incomplete surgery videos, renal insufficiency, or allergic reactions were excluded. MB was infused with 0.9% NaCl at 1.0 mg/kg in 100 mL of normal saline for 5 to 15 minutes during laparoscopic exploration. Imaging was performed using a device developed in-house by OptoMedic (Guangdong, China) that operates at 660nm to achieve excitation of MB. Clinical information, MB dosage, rate of successful fluorescence, time to fluorescence, operation time, blood loss, intraoperative blood oxygen levels, pathological staging, changes in renal function, and post-operative complications were retrospectively analyzed. Results: The study cohort comprised 27 patients (24 men and 3 women) with an average age of (60.25±16.95) years and an average body mass index of (21.72±3.42) kg/m2. The dosage of MB was 0.3-1.0 mg/kg and the infusion time was 5-15 minutes. Fluorescence signals were detected in all patients. The median time to signal detection was 20 (range, 10 to 40) minutes after MB infusion. The range of intraoperative blood oxygen fluctuation averaged 2.5% (range, 0 to 7.0%). The median change in creatine concentration was -1.3 (range, -17.2 to 29.2) µmol/L. No patients had complications associated with use of MB. Fluorescence visualization of the ureter was very valuable clinically in two patients (thick mesentery, stage T4). Conclusion: MB is a safe and effective means of visualizing the ureter by fluorescence during laparoscopic colorectal surgery, especially when the procedure is difficult. MB in a dosage of less than 1 mg/kg can slowly infused for more than 5 minutes during laparoscopic exploration. During the infusion, attention must be paid to blood oxygen fluctuations.

Mysterious ureteral migration of a wooden toothpick from the digestive tract: case report and diagnostic considerations

ABSTRACT Migration of foreign bodies into the urinary tract is a rare event. In certain instances, to unravel the way that objects arrived in the urinary tract is not easy. We report the case of an accidentally swallowed wooden toothpick that migrated and was found in the left ureterovesical junction, protruding into the bladder. Even though the computed tomography scan is widely employed to evaluate the urinary tract, this resource does not have a good sensitivity for detecting foreign bodies. Our report presents an insight into the best imaging approach if wooden toothpicks are suspected. In the present case, the endoscopic treatment was possible with an uneventful outcome and a complete resolution of symptoms.

How we do it: robotic-assisted distal ureterectomy with ureteral reimplantation

ABSTRACT Background: High risk upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is typically managed with radical nephroureterectomy, however, renal preservation can be attempted when UTUC is localized to the distal ureter in the presence of chronic kidney disease (1-3). Distal ureterectomy is typically managed with a ureteral reimplantation and psoas hitch in order to maintain urothelial continuity, to avoid comprising the contralateral ureter, and reducing risk of chronic urinary tract infections and electrolyte abnormalities (4). We present our case of distal ureteral UTUC managed robotically with a distal ureterectomy with ureteral reimplantation. Technique and Follow-Up: Initially, an Orandi needle on a resectoscope circumscribed the left ureteral orifice. Next, robotically, the retroperitoneum was exposed and a left sided pelvic lymphadenectomy was completed. The left ureter was mobilized and the diseased ureteral segment was transected. The mobilized bladder was sutured to psoas fascia. After a cystotomy, the ureter was re-anastomosed to the bladder. The patient was discharged on postoperative day three and re-evaluated one week later with a cystogram. Final pathology was downgraded to non-invasive low-grade papillary urothelial carcinoma with negative lymph nodes and margins. Conclusion: High risk UTUC localized to the distal ureter in the setting of chronic kidney disease can be managed with a distal ureterectomy (3). Robotic distal ureterectomy with ureteral reimplantation can be assisted by an Orandi needle to achieve negative margins. Utilizing a robotic technique can offer challenges with the ureteral spatulation and reanastomosis (5-7). By fixating the ureter to the bladder prior to reanastomosis, our technique offers a solution for these difficulties.

Can extended upper pole ureterectomy prevent ureteral stump syndrome after proximal approach for duplex kidneys?

ABSTRACT Introduction: Symptomatic duplex kidneys usually present with recurrent urinary tract infection due to ureteral obstruction (megaureter, ureterocele or ectopic ureter) and/or vesicoureteral reflux. Upper-pole nephrectomy is a widely accepted procedure to correct symptomatic duplex systems with poor functioning moieties, also known as upper or proximal approach. The distal ureteral stump syndrome (DUSS) can be a late complication of this approach. There is no consensus upon the length of ureteral dissection and the better approach to symptomatic disease in duplex systems, so we aim to identify if extended ureteral dissection can prevent DUSS in top-down approach. Materials and Methods: Forty-four consecutive patients with symptomatic duplex system were retrospectively classified into two groups: those with limited ureteral excision after heminephrectomy (HN) (group-1) and those with extended ureterectomy after HN (group-2). Patients were followed-up for at least 36 months regarding outcomes of distal ureteral stump. Results: Overall complication was 20%. A total of 8 patients required unplanned further surgery in Group-1 (30%) whereas only 1 patient required unplanned surgery in group 2 (6%) (p=0.07). Subgroup analysis showed that Group-1 presented more DUSS requiring surgery during follow-up than group-2 (p=0.04). Factors possibly affecting complications incidence (such as ureterocele or ectopic ureter) did not differ between groups (p=0.72 and p=0.78). Conclusion: Upper pole nephrectomy should be performed with extended distal ureteral dissection to prevent ureteral stump complications.

How I do it open distal ureteroureterostomy for ectopic ureters in infants with duplex systems and no vesicoureteral reflux under 6 months of age

ABSTRACT We describe a step by step technique for open distal ureteroureterostomy (UU) in infants less than 6 months presenting with duplex collecting system and upper pole ectopic ureter in the absence of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).

Application of indocyanine green in complex upper urinary tract repair surgery / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To evaluate the clinical application of indocyanine green (ICG) visualization by near infrared fluorescence laparoscopy (NIFL) in complex upper urinary tract reconstructions surgery.@*METHODS@#This was a retrospective study of 7 patients who underwent complex surgeries of ureteral reconstruction between May 2019 and October 2019. There were 6 males and 1 female with the age ranging from 24 to 57 years (median age was 47 years). There were 5 cases of right ureteral strictures, of which 3 were proximal ureteral strictures and 2 were multiple and long ureteral strictures caused by radiotherapy. There were 2 cases of left ureteral strictures, of which 1 was ureteropelvic junction stricture and 1 was proximal ureteral stricture. There were 4 cases of secondary repair operations and 3 cases of primary operations. All the patients underwent laparoscopic surgery via the abdominal approach. ICG was injected into the ureter via nephrostomy tube during the operations, and the diseased ureter was identified by NIFL. Among the patients, 2 cases underwent IUPU (Institute of Urology, Peking University) modified ileal ureter replacement, 2 cases underwent ureteroureterostomy, 2 cases underwent appendiceal onlay flap ureteroplasty, and 1 case underwent lingual mucosa onlay flap ureteroplasty.@*RESULTS@#All the operations were successfully completed without open conversion. The localization and separation of ureteral lesions were completed under NIFL. The mean operative time was 187 (135-300) min. The duration of ureteral separation was 15-27 min, and the mean time was 18 min. The estimated blood loss was 15-200 mL, the mean estimated blood loss was 50 mL. There was one patient with ileal ureter replacement who had fever after surgery and responded well to antibiotics. The mean (range) length of postoperative hospital stay was 7 (6-10) days and no postoperative complications of a high grade (Clavien-Dindo Ⅲ and Ⅳ) occurred. Up to now, the mean follow-up duration was 9 (6-11) months, and no indocyanine green toxicity occurred. All D-J stents and nephrostomy were removed successfully 2 months after the operation. Ultrasound showed no obvious hydronephrosis, and CTU (computed tomography urography) showed that the urinary tract was unobstructed and the kidney function was normal.@*CONCLUSION@#The application of ICG in the complex upper urinary tract reconstructive surgery is a safe and easy method to help surgeon to identify the ureter which may reduce the risk of iatrogenic damage and protect the ureteral blood supply.

Simulated training model of ureteropyelic anastomosis in laparoscopic pyeloplasty

Abstract Purpose: To develop a model for simulated training of ureteropyelic anastomosis in laparoscopicpyeloplasty. Methods: Longitudinal and experimental study, with 16 participants. A synthetic instrument was produced to simulate the renal pelvis and the proximal portion of the ureter positioned on a platform within laparoscopic simulators, thereby resulting in the realistic simulation of the ureteropelvic anastomosis. A step-by-step guide was also developed for the accomplishment of the ureteropelvic anastomosis training model. Results: In the evaluation of all participants' suture training, a decrease was found in the time needed to perform the anastomosis, with a median of 17.83 min in the 1st step and 14.21 min in the last one (p = 0.01). Regarding the knots, in the 1st step, 5% of them were considered firm, with an evolution to 30% in the last step (p = 0.011). Conclusion: We noticed improvement in the ability to perform the ureteropelvic anastomosis by participants with no experience with it. Therefore, even unexperienced participants can improve their skills with this training. Moreover, we observed the effectiveness of the model use, confirmed by the participants' opinion and its validation by expert surgeons.

Advances in surgical repair of ureteral injury / 北京大学学报(医学版)

Ureteral injury can be classified as iatrogenic or traumatic, which represents a rare but challenging field of reconstructive urology. Due to their close proximity to vital abdominal and pelvic organs, the ureters are highly susceptible to iatrogenic injury, while ureteral injury caused by external trauma is relatively rare. The signs of ureteric injury are difficult to identify initially and often present after a delay. The treatment of ureteral injury, which is depended on the type, location, and degree of injury, the time of diagnosis and the patient's overall clinical condition, ranges from simple endoscopic management to complex surgical reconstruction. And long defect of the ureter presents much greater challenges to urologists. Ureterotomy under endoscopy using laser or cold-knife is available for the treatment of 2-3 cm benign ureteral injuries or strictures. Pyeloplasty is an effective treatment for ureteropelvic junction obstruction and some improved methods showed the possibility of repairing long-segment (10-15 cm) stenosis. Proximal and mid-ureteral injuries or strictures of 2-3 cm long can often be managed by primary ureteroureterostomy. When not feasible due to ureteral defects of longer segment, mobilization of the kidney should be considered, and transureteroureterostomy is alternative if the proximal ureter is of sufficient length. And autotransplantation or nephrectomy is regarded as the last resorts. Most of the injuries or strictures are observed in the distal ureter, below the pelvic brim, and are usually treated with ureteroneocystostomy. A non-refluxing technique together with a ureteral nipple or submucosal tunnel method, is preferable as it minimizes vesico-ureteral reflux and the risk of infection. In order to cover a longer distance, ureteroneocystostomy in combination with a psoas hitch (covering 6-10 cm of defect) or a Boari flap (covering 12-15 cm) is often adopted. Among various ureteral replacement procedures, only intestinal ureteral substitution, which includes ileal ureter, appendiceal interposition and reconfigured colon substitution, has gained wide acceptance when urothelial tissue is insufficient. Ileal ureter can be used to replace the ureter of >15 cm defect and even to replace the entire unbilateral ureter or bilateral ureter. Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques are increasingly being employed for ureteral reconstruction and adopted with encouraging results.

Ureteroileal bypass: a new technic to treat ureteroenteric strictures in urinary diversion

ABSTRACT Objective: To present our technique of ureteroileal bypass to treat uretero-enteric stric- tures in urinary diversion. Materials and Methods: One hundred and forty-one medical records were reviewed from patients submitted to radical cystectomy to treat muscle-invasive bladder cancer between 2013 and 2015. Twelve (8.5%) patients developed uretero-enteric anastomotic stricture during follow-up. Five patients were treated with endoscopic dilatation and double J placement. Four were treated surgically with standard terminal-lateral im- plantation. Three patients with uretero-enteric anastomotic stricture were treated at our institution by "ureteroileal bypass", one of them was treated with robotic surgery. Results: All patients had the diagnosis of uretero-enteric anastomotic stricture via computerized tomography and DTPA renal scan. Time between cystectomy and diag- nosis of uretero-enteric anastomotic stricture varied from five months to three years. Mean operative time was 120±17.9 minutes (98 to 142 min) and hospital stay was 3.3±0.62 days (3 to 4 days). Mean follow-up was 24±39.5 months (6 to 72 months). During follow-up, all patients were asymptomatic and presented improvement in ure-terohydronephrosis. Serum creatinine of all patients had been stable. Conclusions: Latero-lateral ureter re-implantation is feasible by open or even robotic surgery with positive results, reasonable operation time, and without complications.

Ureteral access sheaths: a comprehensive comparison of physical and mechanical properties

ABSTRACT Introduction: Ureteral access sheaths (UAS) facilitate flexible ureteroscopy in the treat- ment of urolithiasis. The physical properties of UAS vary by manufacturer and model. We compared three new UAS: Glideway (GW, Terumo, 11/13Fr, 12/14Fr), Pathway (PW, Terumo 12/14F) and Navigator HD (NHD, Boston Scientific, 11/13Fr, 12/14Fr) in the domains of safety characteristics, positioning characteristics, lubricity and radio- opacity. Materials and Methods: In vitro testing of the three UAS included safety testing-tip perforation force, sheath edge deformation and dilator extraction forces. Positioning characteristics tested included tip bending, stiffness (resistance to coaxial buckling forces), kinking (resistance to perpendicular forces), and insertion forces. Lubricity was assessed by measured frictional forces of the outer sheath. Finally, radio-opacity was tested utilizing fluoroscopic imaging of the three 12F sheaths and inner dilators. Results: The PW (0.245 lb) and GW (0.286 lb) required less force for tip perforation compared to the NHD (0.628 lb). The NHD sheath edge deformation was mild compared to more severe deformation for the PW and GW. The PW (1.008 lb) required greater force than the GW (0.136 lb) and NHD (0.043 lb) for inner dilator removal. The GW (3.69 lbs) and NHD (4.17 lb) had similar inner dilator tip stiffness when bent, while the PW had the weakest inner dilator tip, 1.91 lbs. The PW (0.271 lb) was most susceptible to buckling and kinking (1.626 lb). The most lubricious UAS was the NHD (0.055 lbs for 12F). The NHD (0.277 lbs) required the least insertional force through a biological model and possessed the greatest radio-opacity. Conclusions: Comparison of different commercially available UAS in various sizes reveals that there are mechanical differences in sheaths that may play a role clinically. The Terumo sheaths' (GW and PW) were outperformed by the Boston Scientific NHD in simulating safety, ease of use and radio-opacity.

Does ureteral access sheat usage lead to permanent damage in the ureter? A placebo controlled trial in a rabbit model

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the clinical stenosis or precursor histological changes that ureteral access sheaths commonly used in ureteroscopic surgeries may cause in the long term in ureter. Methods: In this study, the animals were divided into 9 groups and according to their groups, ureters of the rabbits were endoscopically fitted with 2F and 3F ureter catheters. The catheters were left in place and withdrawn after a specified period of time. All the ureters were excised and evaluated macroscopically, microscopically and histologically. Ureter diameters were measured and FGF-2 (+) labeled fibroblasts were counted in connective tissue as stenosis precursors. Results: Macroscopically or microscopically, no stenosis was found in any group. The ureter diameter of the group that were catheterized for the longest time with the catheter that had the widest diameter was significantly lower than the group with the shorter duration and the catheter with the narrower diameter and the control group. When the groups were compared in terms of their FGF values, there was a significant difference in FGF-2 counts at all three ureter levels (p <0.05). Conclusion: The use of ureteral access sheath may lead to histological changes, as its diameter and duration increase.

Laparoscopic ureterovesical reimplantation for ureteral stricture after renal transplantation / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To discuss the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic ureterovesical reimplantation in the treatment of transplanted ureteral stenosis.@*METHODS@#One case of laparoscopic ureterovesicalre implantation in the treatment of ureteral stenosis after renal transplantation was reported, and related literatures was reviewed. A 54-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital with main complaint of hydronephrosis of transplanted kidney for five years after renal transplantation. Her physical examination showed slightly bulging in the transplanted kidney area without tenderness. The magnetic resonance urography (MRU) showed that the transplanted kidney and ureter were dilated obviously, with significant dilatation of renal pelvis and calyx, about 5 cm at the widest point of renal pelvis expansion, and the end of ureter was narrow, without abnormal filling defect in the ureter. The primary diagnosis was distal transplanted ureteral stenosis. After twice endoscopic ureteral dilatation by multi-endoscopic technique, there was no improvement in the hydronephrosis after the removal of the stent. After thorough preoperative preparation, laparoscopic ureterovesical reimplantation was performed under general anesthesia. Firstly, the median umbilical ligament, the lateral umbilical ligament and the peritoneal fold were cut off, and the anterior bladder space was dissociated distally. The space of left side wall of the bladder and the pubic bone was gradually dissociated, and the space of anterior bladder wall and the pubic bone was dissociated. Secondly, the right side wall of the bladder was dissociated from the head to the tail, and the surrounding structure was carefully identified to avoid injury of the ureter of the transplanted kidney. The transplanted ureter was sought between the right side of the bladder and the lower pole of the transplanted kidney. The distal end of the ureter was cut open, and the narrow section was cut off, confirming that no stenosis in the proximal ureter. The ureterocystic anastomosis was performed by Lich-Gregoir method (extra-bladder). Finally, the bladder tissue around the anastomosis site was fixed to the right pelvic wall to reduce tension.@*RESULTS@#The operation was completed successfully, the operation time was 210 min, the amount of bleeding was about 30 mL, and there was no surgical complication. The creatinine was stable after operation, with serum creatinine declining to 68 μmol/L, and serum creatinine 94 μmol/L before operation. The patient was discharged 5 days after operation. After follow-up of 3 months, KUB indicated that the position of ureteral stent was good and the function of renal transplantation was stable.@*CONCLUSION@#Laparoscopic ureterovesical reimplantation is a safe and effective treatment for ureteral ureteral stricture after renal transplantation. Compared with open surgery, laparoscopic surgery has less impact on renal renal allograft, with faster recovery, less bleeding, fewer complications, less postoperative pain and minimally invasive wound. This surgical procedure is difficult and requires an experienced urologist with high laparoscopic skills to perform.

Unilateral extravesical ureteral reimplantation via inguinal incision for the correction of vesicoureteral reflux: a 10-year experience

ABSTRACT Introduction and Objective: Multiple options exist for the surgical management of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). We report on our 10-year experience using the inguinal approach to extravesical ureteral reimplantation (EVR). Materials and Methods: Patient characteristics of age, gender, and reflux grade were obtained and outcomes of operative time, hospital stay, and radiographic resolution were assessed. Results: 71 girls and 20 boys with a mean age of 74 months (range 14-164) underwent inguinal EVR via a 3.5-cm inguinal mini-incision. Mean follow up was 10.9 months (range 0.4-69.7). Average grade of reflux was 2.80. Average operative time was 91 minutes (range 51-268). The procedure was successful in 87 of 91 patients (95.6%). The 3 cases of reflux that persisted were all grade 1 and managed expectantly. Contralateral reflux developed in 9 cases, all of which resolved after treatment with either Deflux or ureteral reimplant. There were 4 case of urinary retention that resolved after a brief period of CIC or indwelling catheterization. There were no cases of ureteral obstruction. Most patients were discharged on post-operative day 1 (85/91) and no hospitalization extended beyond 3 days. Conclusions: The inguinal approach to extravesical ureteral reimplantation should be considered as a potentially minimally invasive alternative to endoscopic and robotic treatment of VUR with a success rate more comparable to traditional open approaches. We feel it is the method of choice in cases of unilateral VUR requiring surgical correction.

The burden of chronic ureteral stenting in cervical cancer survivors

ABSTRACT Purpose Ureteral obstruction in cervical cancer occurs in up to 11% of patients, many of whom undergo ureteral stenting. Our aim was to describe the patient burden of chronic ureteral stenting in a population-based cohort by detailing two objectives: (1) the frequency of repeat procedures for ureteral obstruction; and, (2) the frequency of urinary adverse effects (UAEs) (e.g., lower urinary tract symptoms, flank pain). Materials and Methods From SEER-Medicare, we identified 202 women who underwent ureteral stent placement prior to or following cervical cancer treatment. The frequency of repeat procedures and rate ratios were compared between treatment modalities. The rates and rate ratios of UAEs were compared between our primary cohort (stent + cervical cancer) and the following groups: no stent + cervical cancer, stent + no cancer, and no stent + no cancer. The “no cancer” group was drawn from the 5% Medicare sample. Results 117/202 women (58%) underwent >1 stent procedure. The frequency of additional procedures was significantly higher in patients who received radiation as part of their treatment. UAEs were very common in women with stent + cancer. The rate of UTI was 190 (per 100 person-years), 67 for LUTS, 42 for stones, and 6 for flank pain. These rates were 3-10 fold higher than in the no stent + no cancer control group; rates were also higher than in the no stent + cancer and the stent + no cancer women. Conclusions The burden of disease associated with ureteral stents is higher than expected and urologists should be actively involved in stent management, screening for associated symptoms and offering definitive reconstruction when appropriate.

One wire tubeless ureteral reimplant: preliminary experience and step-by-step technique / One wire tubeless ureteral reimplantation: experiência preliminar e técnica passo-a-passo

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Ureteral Reimplant is commonly used in pediatric and gyne-cologic surgery. Most techniques demand an experienced surgeon and lasts 2-3 hours. There is no consensus about the preferred technique until today. We report a simple modification of the Taguchi to reduce duration and make it more suitable for laparoscopic approach. METHOD: Three patients underwent distal ureteral reimplant, based on our modified Taguchi minimally invasive approach technique. Cystography and ultrasonography were performed on the 30th, 90th and 180th postoperative days to monitor kidneys; a one-year follow-up for recurrence or clinical symptoms was also performed. RESULTS: Operative time for ureteral reimplant using our technique was 15-25 minutes. The results of the performed exams on postoperative days showed normal kidneys without hydro-nephrosis. At the one-year follow-up no signs of recurrence or clinical symptoms were present. CONCLUSION: Our modifications allowed a faster and easier management of distal ureteral reimplant, with excellent perioperative and post-operative outcomes. To our knowledge this is the first detailed description of this technique through minimally invasive approach. However, further studies and a longer follow up will be necessaries to confirm the long-term outcomes and clinical benefits of our technical proposal.

JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: O reimplante ureteral é comumente utilizado em cirurgia pediátrica e ginecológica. A maioria das técnicas exigem um cirurgião experiente e dura 2-3 horas. Não há consenso sobre a técnica preferida até hoje. Relatamos uma modificação simples do Taguchi para reduzir sua duração e torná-lo mais adequado para a abordagem laparoscópica. MÉTODO: Três pacientes foram submetidos a reimplante ureteral distal, com base na técnica de abordagem minimamente invasiva de Taguchi modificada. Cistografia e ultra-sonografia foram realizadas no 30º, 90º e 180º dias de pós-operatório para monitorização dos rins; um acompanhamento de um ano para recorrência ou sintomas clínicos também foi realizado. RESULTADOS: O tempo operatório para o reimplante ureteral utilizando a nossa técnica foi de 15-25 minutos. Os resultados dos exames realizados nos dias pós-operatórios mostraram rins normais sem hidronefrose. No seguimento de um ano não houve sinais de recorrência ou sintomas clínicos. CONCLUSÃO: Nossas modificações permitiram um manejo mais rápido e fácil do reimplante ureteral distal, com excelentes resultados peri- e pós-operatórios. Tanto quanto sabemos, esta é a primeira descrição detalhada desta técnica através de abordagem minimamente invasiva. No entanto, estudos adicionais e um acompanhamento mais longo serão necessários para confirmar os resultados a longo prazo e os benefícios clínicos da técnica proposta.