Total replacement of the ureter by a segment of the sigmoid colon in the treatment of giant hydronephrosis: calyco-sigmoido-cystostomy.

Two cases of giant hydronephrosis of a solitary kidney are reported. In both of them correctly performed pyelo-ureteroplasties had not assured satisfactory emptying of the pyelocalyceal system. Its dilatation and infection had not disappeared. In order to liquidate the nephrostomy, the ureters were replaced by a sigmoidal loop (calyco-sigmoido-cystostomy) with favorable results assessed 24 and 19 months after operation. The use of an isolated sigmoid segment for replacement of the ureter is discussed.