Ureteroscopic laser approach in recurrent ureteropelvic junction stenosis.

OBJECTIVES

Endourological procedures are widely used for treating ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction. Our aim was to establish the value of using laser retrograde endopyelotomy (REP) in cases with recurrence.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between November 2000 and June 2005 we performed 30 REPs in recurrent UPJ obstruction with grades 3 and 4 hydronephrosis (failed pyeloplasty, 17 cases; failed endopyelotomy, 13 cases). Our series was characterized by absence of renal calculi, stenosis length<2 cm, and absence of massive hydronephrosis. We used semirigid and flexible endoscopic equipment (Wolf and Storz) and holmium:YAG laser. In 11 cases, an indwelling double J was placed for 2 wk. An indwelling pyelostent 8/12 F was postoperatively placed for 8 wk.

RESULTS

All cases were evaluated at 6, 12, and 18 mo. Ultrasonography and urography were the main follow-up investigations. At 6 mo, we found normal UPJ and pyelocaliceal system in 9 cases (30%); a reduction of the hydronephrosis degree with normal UPJ in 4 cases (13.3%); and no changes of the hydronephrosis degree in 17 cases (56.6%), but with large UPJ passage in 13 of the 17 cases (76.5%). REP success did not correlate with the degree of hydronephrosis. The success rate after 18 mo was 83.3%. Patients experienced minor complications. The mean follow-up period was 31 mo (range: 18-52 mo).

CONCLUSIONS

REP may represent an efficient minimally invasive technique in recurrent UPJ stenosis, with a reduced rate of complications, short period of hospitalization, and good anatomical and functional results.