[Drainage of pyelo-ureteral junction surgery: personal technique and review of the literature].

OBJECTIVES

To compare the various Stenting techniques used in ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) surgery and to present a personal series of 54 cases in which the Multipurpose Blue Stent (BARD, ANGIOMED) was used.

PATIENTS AND METHOD: Between 1994 and 1998, 54 patients were treated for UPJ obstruction (52 underwent a Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty and 2 a ureterocalicostomy). The Multipurpose Blue Stent insertion technique is described. The stent is removed on postoperative day 10 in the ward without cystoscopy.

RESULTS

Clinical, isotopic and ultrasound improvement was obtained in 98% cases. Seven complications were reported: 4 urinary tract infections and 2 stent displacements without noticeable detrimental consequences on the outcome; 1 anastomotic leakage following a ureterocalicostomy requiring a redo operation (which was successful). The average hospital stay was 3 days.

DISCUSSION: This stenting method is compared to those reported in the literature and proves to be more satisfactory in terms of hospital stay and removal.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative leakage in non-stented operated UPJs is an under-reported but significant complication. Trans-anastomotic stenting has proven to be much safer than non-stenting. The Multipurpose Blue Stent reduces hospital stay and does not require a second hospitalisation to be removed.