Replacement of excised segments of proximal ureters by tubularised bladder grafts vascularised by previously established omental pedicles

This article reports the final study of experiments in which autologous bladder grafts have been used to replace excised segments of ureters in dogs. The technique described involves the use of bladder grafts on previously established omental pedicles as replacements for proximal ureters. Grafts were tubularised over silastic stents, then completely covered with secondary wrappings of omentum. Operated upper tracts were compared to control sides up to 12 months, then, at one year, intravenous urography was repeated at which time inspection was made of operated upper tracts (and contralateral controls) using an image intensifier prior to recording renal pelvic pressure responses to increasing perfusion rates and, finally, pathological examination. Only two of 14 upper tracts with pedicle grafts were failures radiologically and no upper tract was obstructed urodynamically. This approach is recommended for consideration as a treatment option in managing longitudinal defects in ureters in humans