The Double Dutch technique: A new way of creating an ileocystoplasty with a lengthy catheterizable ileal tube.

INTRODUCTION: A tubularized conduit from an open 2-cm vascularized ileal segment is a frequently used technique to create a continent catheterizable channel in cases of an inappropriate or absent appendix. In the long term, many patients experience catheterization problems with the classic ileal segment tube, and even more with spiral or double-segment tubes.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this paper was to introduce an ileocystoplasty modification combined with a long ileal segment tube that has better support by surrounding tissue than other lengthy ileal segment tubes. Briefly summarized, this newly introduced method begins with isolating approximately 30 cm of ileum and dividing it into two parts. Two strips are then created and closed as a double-length tube. The ileal segments are opened antimesenterically and closed over the tube in the middle. The lower part of the tube is implanted with a submucosal tunnel in the bladder wall, and the ileal patch is then anastomosed with the bladder. The tube is anastomosed to the umbilicus in an ordinary way without any traction (see Summary Fig.).

STUDY DESIGN: Between May 2005 and November 2012 the new technique was used at the current institution in nine children who needed an ileocystoplasty (mean age: 9 years and 3 months). Underlying etiology was neurogenic bladder in seven cases and epispadias in two.

RESULTS: All patients ultimately had stomas without leakage or strictures. During follow-up, three of nine tubes developed stenoses that were corrected; four stomas in total had some sort of surgical revision. Median follow-up was 93 months. Intermittent catheterization was uncomplicated in all at this time.

DISCUSSION: With this modification of the standard technique it seemed to be possible to create a more stable channel. The blood supply of the tube was secured by completely embedding the mesentery of the tube. Limitations included the small number of patients treated so far.

CONCLUSION: The lengthy tubes appeared to be straight and well supported by the surrounding tissues, which prevented kinking and sacculation. It is hoped that this technique will have better results and fewer complications at long-term follow-up.