Ureterocalyceal anastomosis in children: Is it still indicated?

ObjectiveWe report our experience with ureterocalyceal anastomosis in children regarding indications and outcome.Materials and methodsA retrospective review was performed of all cases that underwent open ureterocalyceal anastomosis at our center between 2000 and 2006. Records were reviewed for patient age, history, affected side, indication of surgery and operative details. Clinical and radiological outcome was assessed. Success was defined as both symptomatic relief and radiographic resolution of obstruction at last follow up.ResultsThere were 10 cases (six males, four females) with a mean age of 6.5 years (range 3–13 years). Follow up ranged from 6 to 46 months (mean 18). The indications for surgery were failed pyeloplasty in six patients and iatrogenic injury of the ureteropelvic junction or the upper ureter in four. No significant perioperative complications were encountered in the study group. Overall success rate was 80%. Relief of obstruction was evident in eight patients as documented by intravenous urography or nuclear renography, while secondary nephrectomy was necessitated in two patients with severely impaired ipsilateral renal function and normal contralateral kidney. In patients with preserved renal units, the differential function on the involved side was stable on comparing the preoperative and postoperative renographic clearance (26 vs 24 ml/min).ConclusionUreterocalyceal anastomosis in children is still indicated in some difficult situations. Excellent functional results can be achieved in properly selected cases. Nephrectomy may be indicated in cases with impaired renal function and inability to perform salvage procedure.