Malignancy associated with the use of intestinal segments in the urinary tract

Abstract

Use of intestinal segments for urinary tract reconstruction has become widespread. In these patients, urologists are increasingly encountering malignancies that may be a direct result of this altered milieu. This review attempts to summarize the current literature on cancer in patients with intestinal segments in their urinary tracts. Although the exact etiology for this increased risk of malignancy is still unclear, several theories have been proposed. Many investigators now recommend annual screening in patients who have intestinal segments in contact with urine beginning 10 years after the initial surgery.