Efficacy of a new endoureterotomy balloon for the treatment of benign ureteral strictures using the porcine model.

OBJECTIVES

Endoureterotomy and balloon dilation are techniques that have shown promise as treatment modalities for benign ureteral stricture disease. In this animal investigation, the results of a new endoureterotomy balloon that simultaneously incises and dilates the ureteral stricture via a retrograde approach are discussed.

METHODS

Using the female pig model, 9 subjects with benign ureteral strictures were treated: 7 with the endoureterotomy balloon and 2 with balloon dilation only.

RESULTS

Success based on radiologic parameters and Whitaker testing was obtained in 5 of the 7 animals treated by endoureterotomy. In both animals treated by balloon dilation only, recurrent ureteral stricture disease developed.

CONCLUSIONS

This preliminary investigation suggests that this new device may be an effective treatment for benign ureteral stricture disease and that the further study in clinical trials is warranted.