Long-term ureteroscopic management of low-grade transitional cell carcinoma of the upper urinary tract.

Nephrouterectomy, or partial uterectomy, is the treatment of choice for transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the upper urinary tract. However, patients with solitary kidneys, bilateral tumors, renal insufficiency, or medical comorbidities require more conservative management. When the TCC is low grade, it would be desirable to manage such tumors endoscopically. Ten patients with low-grade TCC of the upper urinary tract have been managed for 2-6 years with ureteroscopy and electrofulguration or laser coagulation. All tumors have been managed successfully without evidence of progression. Recurrence is frequent in some patients and requires repeat treatment and vigilant surveillance.