Augmented anastomotic ureteral reconstruction using buccal mucosal graft, initial experience.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the augmented anastomotic ureteral reconstruction using buccal mucosal graft based on omental flap for managing ureteral stricture.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: This prospective cohort study was conducted on 13 patients with ureteric strictures of different lengths secondary to Bilhalziasis, iatrogenic (post endoscopy) and post inflammatory etiology in upper and mid ureteral segments were treated with buccal mucosal patch grafts and The graft is fixed to the undersurface or the posterior surface of the omentum before doing graft anastomosis to the ureteral walls as to ensure the process of graft take sticky to the principles of tissue transfer. All patients were subjected to full history taking, clinical examination for assessment of pain, lower or upper urinary track symptoms and laboratory investigation (complete blood count, CRP, liver function test and kidney function test (serum urea and creatinine).

RESULTS: The mean operative time was 148.85 min and mean hospital stay was 3 days. Mean blood loss was ranged from 20 to 210 ml and Stent was removed after 8-12 weeks. The mean follow up was 13 months, all patients had a non-obstructive RI value <0.7 with a non-obstructed drainage pattern on the diuretic renogram except one patient who had severe postoperative UTI necessitating nephrostomy tube insertion his drainage curve was plateau.

CONCLUSION: BMG ureteroplasty is a valuable option for a carefully selected patient. The fixation of the graft on the back surface of the omentum allows for better anatomical reconstruction without any twisting to the omental pedicle.