Priorities in Urinary Diversion Following Pyeloplasty

Abstract

Debate continues regarding optimal drainage following pyeloplasty. We reviewed the method of drainage in 100 consecutive dismembered pyeloplasties performed from 1983 to 1987. Of the children 20 per cent underwent pyeloplasty with placement of a nephrostomy tube and transanastomotic stent (group 1), while 80 per cent underwent pyeloplasty performed in a nonintubated fashion (group 2). A urethral bladder catheter was used in 20 per cent of the patients in group 1 and in 90 per cent in group 2. While the over-all complication rates and long-term results were similar for both groups, the nature of complications for each group differed. The intubated group had a 10.5 per cent incidence of urinary tract infection, while the nonintubated group demonstrated an 8.6 per cent incidence of postoperative anastomotic leakage. A nephrostomy tube and stent appear to be unnecessary in the routine pyeloplasty and may prolong hospitalization. Selective use of upper tract drainage may help to decrease the incidence of postoperative leakage in specific cases.