Laparoscopic Ureteroureterostomy Using Vascular Closure Staples in Porcine Model

Abstract

The greatest difficulty in performing a laparoscopic pyeloplasty is the suturing of the ureteropelvic junction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of nonperforating titanium vascular closure staple (VCS) clips to perform a laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy in the porcine model. Six female minipigs underwent laparoscopic transection of one of the proximal ureters at the level of the lower pole of the kidney. Ureteroureterostomy was then performed using the titanium VCS clips. The animals were evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks postureteroureterostomy with retrograde pyelography and differential creatinine clearances. At 12 weeks, the animals were euthanized, and the area of ureteroureterostomy was examined grossly and histopathologically. The technique for laparoscopic vascular clipping of the ureteroureterostomy proved to be fast and effective. Follow-up indicated that the method was successful in producing a functionally patent anastomosis. No encrustation, stone formation, or intraluminal clip was noted in any of the ureters or kidneys undergoing the ureteroureterostomy. The area of the ureteroureterostomy showed minimal fibrosis and inflammation on histopathologic examination. In this animal study, the nonperforating titanium clips facilitated the performance of a laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy.