Objective: Hautmann neobladder is one of the most widely bladder replacement techniques in the two sexes. The uretero-ileal stenosis rate is estimated to be 11% with the initial CAMEY-LE DUC technique. A new anastomosis technique is presented in order to improve this postoperative complication.
Materials and methods: Two 5 to 10 cm ileal segments are prepared at the two extremities of the W of the neobladder to receive the largely spatulated ureters. The anastomosis is performed directly on the ileal resection margin, in a strictly retroperitoneal position. Between December 1996 and December 1998, the technique was performed in 89 patients including 19 women. One hundred and sixty six renal units (RU) were analysed by preoperative renal ultrasound, repeated after 1, 3 and 6 months and then every 6 months. Urine culture was performed monthly for 6 months.
Results: Thirteen RU were dilated (grade II and III) preoperatively (7.8%). No secondary anastomotic stenosis was observed with a mean follow-up of 5.8 +/- 7.6 months. Of the 166 RU examined, 129 were normal, 13 preoperative dilatations were improved and 24 RU presented minimal postoperative dilatation (grade I). Ileo-ureteric reflux was observed on the postoperative retrograde cystography in two cases. The only complication was acute pyelonephritis (1.1%) at 1 month. 90% of urine cultures were sterile after 6 months.
Conclusion: Modification of uretero-ileal anastomosis by the "double chimney" technique is performed without tension by placing the two ureters in an anatomical position without plication or torsion. Preservation of the ureteric blood supply contributes to the low complication rate and a decreased risk of stenosis. However, the technique needs to be validated by analysis of the results with a longer follow-up.