LAPAROSCOPIC RECONSTRUCTION OF THE URINARY TRACT IN PATIENTS WITH URETERAL STRICTURE AFTER KIDNEY TRANSPLANTATION

Abstract

Aim. Ureteral obstruction secondary to ischemia is the most common urologic complication of kidney trans- plantation. Pyeloureteral anastomosis with recipient ureter has shown most satisfactory long-term results in its management. Existing urinary infection and immunosupression determine the high risk of wound complications. We have experience more than 50 reconstructive procedures of urinary tract after kidney transplantation by open surgery during 25 years. Till last time this procedure has been performed through open surgery. Method. We used pyeloureteral anastomosis with recipient ureter in two patients with ureteral stricture after kidney transplantation by laparoscopic approach. The operations lasted 215 and 275 min respectively. In both cases the surgery was per- formed after percutaneous nephrostomy because of deterioration of transplanted kidney function. Internal stent was indwelled laparoscopicaly. No drain tube was left. Results. The nephrostomy tubes were removed after 10 and 7 days respectively. The stents were removed after 27 and 20 days respectively. No complications were seen during the surgery and postoperative period. Now serum creatinine level is 0.12 mmol/l and 0.15 mmol/l after 15 and 12 months after surgery respectively. Conclusion. In spite of some difficulties related with topographic land- marks and severe tissues fibrosis after transplantation laparoscopic pyeloureterostomy in transplanted kidney is safe and feasible procedure. The main advantage is absence of risk of most serious complications related with wound infection in immune compromised patients. Moreover, early recovery to usual activity and diet facilita- tes to prevent pulmonary infections and to normalize intestinal absorbability of the immunosuppressive drugs.