Ureteric reconstruction and replacement

Abstract

To review the recent advances on ureteric reconstruction and replacement, in particular, ileal ureteric replacement and laparoscopic and robotic-assisted ureteral reconstruction. Recently, the ureteric replacement with bowel has been carefully assessed by several authors, and the results are quite impressive. Also, very recent studies on laparoscopic and robotic-assisted ureteral repair have been published. Outcomes appear very promising, allowing for a faster recovery and shorter hospital stay for the patient. Today, we can conclude that the field of ureteric reconstruction and replacement is still evolving. Old techniques are supported by an increasing degree of evidence, and new, more minimally invasive surgical strategies emerge. Clearly, there are some disadvantages as well as difficulties to overcome with the new techniques; however, recent studies appear to present promising results.