Background
Failure after open ureteral reimplantation has been reported to occur in 2-7% of cases. While a second open reconstructive surgery is appropriate in most cases, there are data suggesting similar outcomes utilizing the laparoscopic approach. The objective of this study is to describe a modification and report our experience with laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation after failed open reimplantation reinforced with a psoas hitch.
Methods
A retrospective review of pediatric patients who underwent laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation after failed open surgery between September 2012 and April 2018 at three different academic centers was performed. Patient demographics, surgical indications, complications and outcomes were reviewed. Either ipsilateral ureteral reimplantation with a combined intravesical and extravesical approach or a cross-trigonal extravesical approach was utilized, depending on the length of the ureter. In all cases a psoas hitch was performed to gain a longer submucosal tunnel and relieve tension, thus facilitating an efficient anti-reflux mechanism.
Results
Seventeen patients underwent a laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation after failed open surgery. Median age at second surgery was 106 months (IQR 53-122.5). Ipsilateral ureteral reimplantation with a combined intravesical and extravesical approach was performed in 11 cases and cross-trigonal extravesical approach in 6. Median ureteral diameter before the re-do surgery was 16 mm (IQR 14.5-18.5) and after surgery 6 mm (IQR 3.5-8.5), (p<0.001). Postoperative mercaptoacetyltriglycine (MAG3) renal scan showed a non-obstructive pattern and stable renal function in all cases.
Conclusion
Laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation with incorporation of a psoas hitch after failed open reimplantation is safe and effective.