Complications related to different continence mechanisms in ileocecal reservoirs

Purpose: We compared the incidence, treatment and outcome of complications related to different continence mechanisms in a single institutional series of continent urinary diversions using an ileocecal reservoir. Materials and Methods: From November 1990 through October 1996 in 193 consecutive cases an ileocecal pouch (Mainz I) was used as a low pressure, high capacity reservoir. A submucosally embedded in situ appendix was used in 96 patients (mean age 57.2 years, mean followup 35.6 months) and an ileal intussusception valve was used in 106 (mean age 58.4, mean followup 33.1 months). Without exception the stoma was placed in the umbilicus. Results: In 172 patients (85.2%) no stoma related complication was observed. In 17 patients (17.7%) with appendix stoma 23 reinterventions were performed, for appendico-umbilical stenosis in all but 2 cases (15.6%), occurring after a mean of 20.4 months. Two complete appendix necroses required replacement by ileal nipple. Stomal stenoses could be corrected as minor outpatient procedures. In 13 of 106 patients (12.3%) with intussuscepted ileal nipple a second operation became necessary after a mean interval of 9.6 months (partial/complete necrosis of nipple in 4 cases, dislocation of nipple from ileocecal valve in 3, detachment from fascia in 4 and stomal stenosis in 2). Whereas no calculi were observed in the appendix group, stones had to be removed from 3 patients (2.8%) with ileal nipple. Conclusions: In situ appendix and intussuscepted ileal valve techniques are satisfactory in providing ileocecal reservoir continence. Besides the known advantages of the appendix as the primary reconstructive approach, the treatment of subsequent complications is simple. Therefore, whenever an appropriate appendix is encountered it should be the intestinal segment of choice in forming a continence mechanism.