Trends in Renal Function After Radical Cystectomy and Ileal Conduit Diversion: New Insights Regarding Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Variations

IntroductionOur objectives were to evaluate the long-term renal function after radical cystectomy (RC) and ileal conduit diversion (ICD) and to analyze year-by-year the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and morphologic upper urinary tract changes.Patients and MethodsWe retrospectively identified 226 patients who had undergone RC and ICD from 1980 to 2008, with regular postoperative follow-up visits. The eGFR was calculated using the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation at baseline and during follow-up. A decrease in renal function was defined as > 1 mL/min/1.73 m2 annually.ResultsThe median follow-up period after RC was 91 months (range, 61-235 months). The median eGFR decreased from 66 mL/min/1.73 m2 (range, 17-139 mL/min/1.73 m2) to 59 mL/min/1.73 m2 (range, 33-102 mL/min/1.73 m2). A rapid decline in renal function occurred during the first 2 postoperative years (−9 mL/min/1.73 m2 and −4 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the first and second year, respectively), with a moderate to slight decrease in the subsequent years. Urinary obstruction was diagnosed in 51 patients (23%). Among the patients who underwent prompt surgical treatment, we did not find any association with the eGFR decline (P = .8).ConclusionPatients with urinary ICD have a lifelong risk of chronic kidney disease. Regular monitoring of renal function and the morphologic upper urinary tract will permit early diagnosis and treatment of modifiable factors, avoiding irreversible kidney damage.