Purpose of review: Uretero-intestinal reimplantation is a crucial component of urinary diversion. Several techniques for refluxing and nonrefluxing uretero-intestinal reimplantation have been established and modified to minimize anastomotic complications and preserve renal function. We review current experience with uretero-intestinal reimplantation in different types of urinary diversion.
Recent findings: The basic principles of uretero-intestinal reimplantation are still controversially discussed. Several studies have focused on complications of urinary reflux from direct end-to-side or end-to-end anastomosis, such as pyelonephritis and calculus formation. Strictures at the anastomotic site of nonrefluxing tunneled ureteral reimplantation resulting in hydronephrosis and renal deterioration have led some to question the need for an antirefluxive anastomosis, at least in "low pressure urinary diversion". Alternative surgical procedures aim to avoid reflux and minimize the risk for anastomotic strictures by direct ureteral reimplantation into an intact isoperistaltic afferent ileal segment or the prevalvular ileum, with the ileocaecal valve functioning as an antireflux mechanism.
Summary: A "gold standard" for uretero-intestinal anastomosis in urinary diversion does not yet exist. Further prospective randomized studies are required to identify the best anastomotic techniques for different types of urinary diversion.