Laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty: 50 consecutive cases

Objective To test the hypothesis that laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty offers the same good results as open pyeloplasty, but without the disadvantages of the loin incision (which is painful, prolongs hospitalization and prevents a return to normal activities for several weeks) in the treatment of pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction. Patients and methods Fifty consecutive consenting patients presenting with PUJ obstruction underwent laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty carried out by one surgeon using an extraperitoneal approach. Results Two (4%) procedures were converted to open surgery. The mean (range) operative duration was 164 (120-240) min, Fifteen (30%) of the patients had their ureter transposed anterior to a crossing lower-pole vessel; 22 (44%) patients had a separate renal pelvic suture line. The mean (range) postoperative parenteral analgesic requirement was 19.1 (0-111) mg of morphine sulphate. The mean (range) hospitalization was 2.6 (2-7) days. Two (4%) patients had complications. After a mean (range) follow-up of 18.8 (3-72) months all but one patient, who had failed endopyelotomy, had a normal reno.-ram and were symptom-free. Conclusion These results suggest that a loin wound is not necessary for a successful outcome after dismembered pyeloplasty, and that in expert hands laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty should now be considered the standard of care.