Bladder reconstruction with ileum after cystoprostatectomy for bladder cancer: analysis of the micturition and continence of 44 consecutive patients.

From October, 1987, to August, 1990, 47 patients underwent an ileal low pressure bladder replacement using the Hautmann procedure after radical cystoprostatectomy for bladder cancer. The qualities of micturition and continence were evaluated from a questionnaire mailed to the patients and by urodynamic examinations in 44 consecutive patients over a follow-up period of more than 3 (mean 10.7) months. The 44 patients (100%) were perfectly dry during the daytime and voided every 4 (2-6) h with a micturitional volume of 357 (200-500) ml. Forty-two of the 44 patients had no residual urine. Thirty-three of the 44 patients (75%) were perfectly dry at night with a voiding frequency of 1.5 (0-3). Seven of the 44 patients (16%) were occasionally incontinent (spotting less than 2/week). Four of the 44 patients (9%) had night incontinence and used as external device. Only two patients showed high pressure waves of greater than 50 cm H2O. The maximum urethral pressure was 59.07 +/- 13.6 (30-80) cm H2O. The maximum flow rate was 17.2 +/- 9.7 (4.5-35) ml/sec. The different factors responsible for the new micturitional balance were discussed. With its very good functional results and its ease of performance, the ileal neobladder is, for us, the procedure of choice for bladder reconstruction after cystectomy.