Ileal Ureter Replacement Combined with Boari Flap-Psoas Hitch to Treat Full-Length Ureteral Defects: Technique and Initial Experience.

OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the feasibility of ileal ureter replacement combined with Boari flap-psoas hitch procedure for the management of full-length ureteral defects (>20 cm).METHODS:Three patients diagnosed with full-length ureteral defect were treated with our technique performed by a single surgeon between January 2015 to January 2016. All the patients had borderline renal function preoperatively. In each case, the ureteral reconstruction was performed by combining ileal ureter replacement with Boari flap-psoas hitch. Data on indications for surgery, intraoperative and postoperative outcomes, and changes in renal function were collected.RESULTS:Surgery was performed successfully with an operation duration between 210 and 250 minutes. The mean estimated blood loss was 230 mL. The mean length of hospital stay was 11 days, and no major complications (grade ≥3) occurred. Postoperative follow-up showed radiological resolution of hydronephrosis and improved renal function in all 3 patients.CONCLUSION:Ileal ureter replacement combined with Boari flap-psoas hitch is a feasible option for bridging full-length ureteral defects. This technique minimizes the length of ileal graft required as well as limitations concerning patient selection. Larger series with longer follow-up to confirm the value of the technique are warranted.