Laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty: 50 consecutive cases

Abstract

Objective: To test the hypothesis that laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty offers the same good results as open pyeloplasty, but without the disadvantages of the loin incision (which is painful, prolongs hospitalization and prevents a return to normal activities for several weeks) in the treatment of pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction.

Patients and methods: Fifty consecutive consenting patients presenting with PUJ obstruction underwent laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty carried out by one surgeon using an extraperitoneal approach.

Results: Two (4%) procedures were converted to open surgery. The mean (range) operative duration was 164 (120-240) min. Fifteen (30%) of the patients had their ureter transposed anterior to a crossing lower-pole vessel; 22 (44%) patients had a separate renal pelvic suture line. The mean (range) postoperative parenteral analgesic requirement was 19.1 (0-111) mg of morphine sulphate. The mean (range) hospitalization was 2.6 (2-7) days. Two (4%) patients had complications. After a mean (range) follow-up of 18.8 (3-72) months all but one patient, who had failed endopyelotomy, had a normal renogram and were symptom-free.

Conclusion: These results suggest that a loin wound is not necessary for a successful outcome after dismembered pyeloplasty, and that in expert hands laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty should now be considered the standard of care.