Objectives: To compare acid-base and electrolyte balance in ileocecal and ileal neobladders.
Methods: Acid-base and electrolyte balance were studied in 45 patients with an ileocecourethrostomy and 18 patients with an ileal reservoir. The mean follow-up was 51 months. Results were compared with regard to both the type of operation and the time since surgery.
Results: No significant differences were found with regard to either the type of operation or the length of follow-up. A preserved renal function is important in maintaining a healthy status.
Conclusions: The use of 35 to 40 cm of ileum or 10 cm of cecum with the ileocecal junction seems to be safe even after a long follow-up. The length rather than the kind of bowel used for bladder replacement appears to be important in safeguarding hydroelectrolyte and acid-base homeostasis. This is particularly true in the presence of preserved renal function.