The application of the "omental wrapping" technique with autologous onlay flap/graft ureteroplasty for the management of long ureteral strictures

Robotic appendiceal onlay flap ureteroplasty combined with Boari flap-psoas hitch ureteroneocystostomy for repair of the 20 cm ureteral avulsion: initial experience and case report

Background

Ureteral avulsion is a rare but serious complication of ureteroscopic lithotomy. As a common treatment for long segment ureteral avulsion, ileal ureteral replacement has many complications, such as anastomotic site stricture and retrograde infection, and prolonged exposure of the intestinal mucosa to urine may result in postoperative metabolic acidosis. Autologous tissue is becoming increasingly popular in ureteroplasty, including oral mucosa, appendix and bladder. Recent advancements in ureteral reconstruction techniques have highlighted the utility of the appendix and bladder, but the length of autologous tissue is limited. In order to reduce complications and save autologous tissue, we propose a novel combined technique. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of appendiceal onlay flap ureteroplasty combined with Boari flap-psoas hitch ureteroneocystostomy in the treatment of long segment ureteral avulsion, with a 15-month follow-up.

Case Description

We report a 64-year-old male patient diagnosed with right ureteral avulsion. In this case, the ureteral reconstruction was accomplished through our new technique. Antegrade urography revealed no obstruction of the reconstructed ureteral segment at 7 weeks after surgery. After a 15-month follow-up period, no postoperative complications occurred, radiological resolution of hydronephrosis and improved renal function were observed.

Conclusions

Our initial experience demonstrated that appendiceal onlay flap ureteroplasty combined with Boari flap-psoas hitch ureteroneocystostomy is safe and feasible. This novel surgical method provides a promising option for treating long segment ureteral avulsion.

Robotic reconstruction for benign upper urinary tract obstruction: a review of the current literature

The field of reconstructive urology has seen a paradigm shift in the surgical approach for intra-abdominal cases, resulting in an increased preference for minimally invasive techniques. The introduction of the surgical robot has led to exponential growth in innovative approaches, reflecting the ongoing efforts to improve patient outcomes and address the limitations of open and laparoscopic surgery. This review article summarizes the knowledge gained in the last 10 years about adult robotic ureteral reconstruction. A non-systematic literature review was conducted on February 18, 2024 using Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase libraries. Studies published in English since 2014 reporting at least five robotic ureteral reconstructive cases for the management of benign ureteral obstruction in adults were included. A narrative review focusing on robotic ureteral reconstructive techniques, their associated success and complication rates, and how the robotic approach compares to open and laparoscopic reconstruction was performed. The current literature demonstrates increased utilization of the robotic platform in reconstructive urological procedures. Robotic surgery has been shown to be associated with shorter learning curves, lower surgeon fatigue, better visualization and equivalent results to those seen with laparoscopic surgery. While the literature is limited by a lack of comparative data, well-designed randomized controlled trials, and standardized criteria for defining and measuring success, this review demonstrates the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of robotic ureteral reconstruction for managing benign ureteral strictures, confirming it as a viable alternative to open and laparoscopic surgery.

Robotic lower-lip mucosal graft ureteroplasty for ureteral stenosis longer than 2 cm: initial experience of thirteen patients

Objectives

To present our initial experience of robotic ureteroplasty with lower-lip mucosal graft (LLMG) for treating ureteral stenosis longer than 2 cm and evaluate its feasibility and efficacy.

Materials and methods

A total of thirteen patients with ureteral stenosis who underwent robotic ureteroplasty with LLMG were retrospectively analyzed. After identification and dissection of the ureteral stenosis segment, the segment was incised longitudinally. Then, the LLMG was harvested according to the characteristics of stenosis and sutured with the ureter in onlay fashion. All procedures were completed successfully.

Result

The median stenosis length was 3.5 cm (ranged: 3.0-4.5 cm). The mean length and width of the LLMG were 3.81 ± 0.60 cm and 1.27 ± 0.26 cm, respectively. The mean operative time and anastomosis time were 212.31 ± 23.06 min and 36.54 ± 6.58 min, respectively. The double-J stent was removed at 8 weeks postoperatively in all patients. Three patients (23.1%) suffered postoperative complications during the follow-up period (range, 6-18 months), including fever, urinary tract infection and stenosis recurrence. The success rate was 92.3% (12/13).

Conclusion

Robotic ureteroplasty with LLMG is a safe and feasible technique for treating ureteral stenosis.

Use of omentum during robotic-assisted reconstructive urological surgery: a systematic review of the current literature

PURPOSE

Due to its biological properties, the omentum is a very useful tool in the hands of reconstructive urologists. The purpose of this systematic review is to present all existing evidence regarding the use of omentum during different robotic-assisted reconstructive urological surgeries.

METHODS

In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Guidelines, three databases (PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane) were systematically screened. The following search string was used: (omentum OR omental) AND robotic. Retrospective studies and case-series were included, while case-reports were not included.

RESULTS

13 studies met all eligibility criteria and were included in final qualitative synthesis. Seven studies reported robotic vesicovaginal fistula repair, two studies reported robotic vesicouterine or vesicocervical fistula repair, one study reported robotic rectovesical fistula repair, one study reported robotic rectourethral fistula repair, one study reported ureterolysis with omental wrap and one study reported robotic repair of long ureteral strictures with omental wrap and autologous onlay flap or graft ureteroplasty. Recurrence rates ranged from 0% to 6.7%. The Grade I-II complications according to Clavien-Dindo Classification ranged from 0 to 40%, while no Grade III-IV were reported.

CONCLUSION

Robotic repair with the use of omentum is potentially a feasible, safe and efficient approach for complicated urological surgeries, such as vesicovaginal, vesicouterine, vaginocervical, rectovesical and rectourethral fistulas, idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis and long ureteral strictures. Because the evidence is based on small case series, further publications are needed to enhance confidence in omental harvesting and render it a routine component of reconstructive Urology.

Robotic buccal mucosal graft ureteroplasty using combination of posterior-inlay and anterior-onlay technique

Buccal mucosal graft (BMG) ureteroplasty, particularly with the anterior-onlay technique, shows promise for treating complex ureteral strictures. However, long and circumferential strictures remain challenging. This study aimed to present the surgical technique of the posterior-inlay and anterior-onlay technique in robotic ureteroplasty with a BMG (RU-BMG). A 37-year-old male patient with a medical background of failed laparoscopic ureteroplasty and multiple endourological interventions was admitted to our hospital. Preoperative anterograde and retrograde pyelography revealed a 5-cm ureteral stricture. During the surgical procedure, the ureteral posterior wall was insufficient to facilitate a complete posterior augmented anastomosis, resulting in a posterior defect subsequent to the partial posterior augmented anastomosis. Ultimately, a BMG was utilized to address the posterior defect initially, followed by anterior-onlay ureteroplasty with a BMG. The Foley catheter was removed 2 weeks after surgery, while the nephrostomy tube was clamped on postoperative day 14. The double-J stent was removed 3 months after surgery. The preoperative serum creatine was 102.9 μmol/L. The surgery was performed successfully within 240 min, with estimated blood loss of 100 mL. The postoperative hospitalization was 4 days. Throughout the 12-month follow-up period, no symptoms or complications were observed, with a serum creatine of 82.0 μmol/L. Computed tomography urography indicated relieved hydronephrosis. In conclusion, RU-BMG using a combination of posterior-inlay and anterior-onlay technique is safe and feasible in the management of ureteral stricture. More cases and longer follow-up for this procedure are needed for better perfection of this procedure.

The application of the "perinephric fat wrapping" technique with oral mucosal graft for the management of ureter repair and reconstruction

OBJECTIVE

The management of long-segment ureteral stenosis has posed a significant challenge for urologists. Ureteroplasty with oral mucosal graft has emerged as an effective approach for treating long-segment ureteral stenosis and defects. A key step in replacement repair surgery involves suturing the surrounding tissue with an adequate blood supply around the reconstructed ureter. The current study aims to evaluate the potential practical application of the "perinephric fat wrapping" technique in laparoscopic ureteroplasty with oral mucosal graft.

METHODS

Between July 2018 and February 2023, 26 patients with ureteral stenosis underwent laparoscopic ureteroplasty with oral mucosal graft at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. We used traditional omental wrapping technique (OW group) or perinephric fat wrapping technique (PFW group) to enhance ureter repair. Perioperative and follow-up data for both groups were collected retrospectively and compared.

RESULTS

There were 10 patients in OW group, including 4 males and 6 females, with BMI of 23.5±2.8 kg/m2 and stenosis length of 3.6±1.6 cm. There were 16 patients in the PFW group, including 10 males and 6 females, with a BMI of 26.1±3.3 kg/m2 and a median stenosis length of 2.3 cm (range, 1.2~6.0 cm). The operation of both groups was successfully completed, and no serious complications occurred during the operation. The mean operating time (OT) in the OW group was 200.6±41.9 min, the estimated amount of blood loss (EBL) was 25 ml (range, 10~30ml), and the median length of postoperative hospital stay (LHS) was 7.5 days (range 4.0~14.0 days). In the PFW group, the mean operating time (OT) was 211.9±38.3 min, the estimated blood loss (EBL) was 25 ml (range, 5~150ml), and the postoperative hospital stay (LHS) was 6.8±2.0 d. There was no significant difference between the two groups in the above indexes. Postoperative anal exhaust time was 1.0 d (range, 1.0~2.5d) in the PFW group and 1.9±0.5 d in the OW group, with significant difference between the two groups (P=0.009). The mean follow-up time was 36.8±15.9 months, and there was no significant difference between OW group and PFW group in the curative effect of operation.

CONCLUSION

Perinephric fat wrapping technique not only avoids the potential effects of using omentum on abdominal organs, it is also as safe and effective as omentum wrapping technique in repairing and reconstructing the ureter using oral mucosal grafts.

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.

Narrative review of flaps and grafts in robotic reconstructive urologic surgery

Background and Objective

Flaps and grafts are used for filling dead space, ureteral substitution, and as mesh alternatives. The surgical robot is invaluable in urologic reconstructive surgery due to the ability of the robot to reach the deep pelvis, its minimally invasive access, the ability to use indocyanine green to identify structures and assess tissue perfusion and viability, and ergonomics for the surgeon. Robotic reconstruction can involve tissue transfer in the form of flaps and grafts to provide form and function to organs that have been damaged by iatrogenic injuries, trauma, infections, cancer, radiation injury, or congenital abnormalities. Common flaps and grafts can be readily adapted to the robotic approach. In this literature review, we examine the robotic use of flaps and grafts in reconstructive urology.

Methods

A thorough literature review was conducted via a PubMed search for predefined terms.

Key Content and Findings

Flaps and grafts in reconstructive urology are used for interposition, ureteral substitution, and as mesh alternatives. Omental flaps are used for tissue interposition, or to provide structure and nutrients, and are easily employed with the robot. Various robotic applications of peritoneal flaps have been described. Vascular rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flaps are well-vascularized flaps that occupy dead space and provide structural support, which can be harvested readily with the robot. Sigmoid epiploica are an excellent flap for pelvic reconstruction. Gracilis flaps and fascia lata grafts are well-tolerated and provide space occupying tissue. Boari flaps aid in robotic ureteral reconstruction, especially in the setting of long defects. Oral mucosa is excellent for ureteral or bladder neck reconstruction. Rectal mucosa is well-tolerated and easy to harvest robotically for a variety of urinary tract reconstructive applications. The appendix or ileum can be interposed for repair of damaged ureters.

Conclusions

Various flaps and grafts have been adapted for robotic reconstructive urology. As the field develops, refinement of techniques and innovation in flaps and employment of the robot will propel this field forward. More studies, especially comparative studies, are needed to elucidate the flaps and grafts that are most likely to be successful with the least morbidity for each use case.

Laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy with bladder flap for benign ureteral stenosis: our initial experience

To present our experience with laparoscopic ureteroneocystostomy with bladder flap (LUCBF) for treating benign ureteral stenosis and evaluate its feasibility and efficacy. The clinical data of 27 patients with benign ureteral stenosis who underwent LUCBF were retrospectively analyzed. After identification and excision of the ureteral stenosis segment, the healthy ureteral stump was dissected and incised longitudinally. A U-shaped or spiral bladder flap was harvested from the anterolateral bladder wall for ureteroplasty. All patients underwent LUCBF successfully, including 14 patients were combined with psoas hitch technique, between 90 and 220 min (median, 155 min). The median length of ureteral defect was 6 cm (range, 5-17 cm). The median blood loss was 40 ml (20-150 ml). The median indwelling time of double-J stent was 8 weeks (range, 4-8 weeks). Five patients (10.6%) suffered postoperative complications during the follow-up period (range, 12-48 months), including fever, hematuria, urinary tract infection and recurrent stenosis. The success rate was 96.3% (26/27). Patients with long ureter defects had longer operative time and more blood loss than short ureter defects. LUCBF was a safe and feasible technique for benign ureteral stenosis. Long ureter defect was related to longer operative time and more blood loss.

Laparoscopic ureteroplasty with oral mucosal graft for ureteral stricture: Initial experience of eighteen patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility and clinical efficacy of laparoscopic ureteroplasty with oral mucosal graft for ureteral stricture and describe the initial experience of eighteen operations.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 18 patients who underwent laparoscopic ureteroplasty with oral mucosal graft for long segment or complex ureteral stricture admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University from July 2018 to June 2021. After the stricture ureter segment was freed during the operation, the ureteral stenosis segment was longitudinally cut. The required oral mucosa is removed according to the length of the stenosis. Oral mucosal grafts were harvested and placed in the ureter as an anterior onlay with omental wrapping.

RESULTS

Ureteral repair was performed laparoscopically in all cases, with no conversion to open surgery and no serious complications. The median length of ureteral stenosis was 3 cm (range, 2-7 cm), the mean operative time was 205.8 ± 33.4 min, indwelling time of the drainage tube was 4.9 ± 1.6 days, and the median length of postoperative stay was 7 days (range, 4-14 days). The double J tube was removed three to six weeks postoperatively. One of the eighteen patients had restenosis after surgery, and the other patients showed no deterioration of the severity of the obstructive uropathy after follow-up imaging examination.

CONCLUSION

Laparosopic ureteroplasty with oral mucosal graft is a simple, safe and efficient option for the treatment of ureteral stricture. Although the results of the initial experience are encouraging, a large cohort study with longer follow-up period is need to be done.

Application of pedicled greater omentum flap tamponade combined with laparoscopic fenestration in diaphragmatic hepatic cyst

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and clinical application advantage of omental tamponade with vascular pedicle combined with Laparoscopic fenestration for the treatment of diaphragmatic hepatic cyst.

Methods

A total of 56 patients with diaphragmatic hepatic cysts underwent laparoscopic surgery in a single tertiary academic medical center from January 2010 to October 2020, including 21 patients (non-omental group) underwent laparoscopic fenestration of liver cysts, and 36 patients underwent laparoscopic liver cyst fenestration combined with vascular pedicle omentum tamponade (omental group). The general conditions and follow-up results of the two groups were compared and annalyzed.

Results

The operation time of the omental group was longer than that of the non-omental group (P = 1.358E-4). There was no significant difference in postoperative complications, postoperative laboratory values and hospital costs (P>0.05). The length of hospital stay in omental group was shorter than that in non-omental group (P = 0.034). In the omental group, recurrence occurred in 1 of 35 patients (4.65%) who were followeded up 12 months after surgery. In the non-omental group, of the 21 patients followed, 3 patients (14.28%) recurred 6 months after surgery, and 8 patients (38.10%) recurred 12 months after surgery.

Conclusion

It is an effective method to prevent the recurrence of diaphragmatic hepatic cyst after laparoscopic fenestration by packing the cyst with vascularized omentum.