Ureteric embolization: an alternative treatment strategy for urinary fistulae complicating advanced pelvic malignancy.
OBJECTIVE
To report experience with a minimally invasive technique for palliation of urinary fistula/incontinence complicating advanced pelvic malignancy or its treatment.


METHODS
We used ureteric embolization with permanent nephrostomy drainage in eight renal units in five patients for palliation of symptoms. All procedures were done under local anaesthesia as day-case procedures. Nephrostomy tubes were changed at regular intervals on an outpatient basis. Embolization was repeated when required.


RESULTS
The follow-up was 2-84 months; four patients died from the underlying malignancy during the follow-up. All patients were continent and had effective palliation of their symptoms. Two patients required repeat embolization. There were no embolization-related complications.


CONCLUSIONS
Ureteric embolization is a safe and effective minimally invasive palliative treatment option in urinary fistulae or incontinence complicating advanced pelvic malignancy.
Natarajan
Vaithianathan
V
Department of Urology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK. V.Natarajan@sth.nhs.uk
Boucher
Nigel R
NR
Meiring
Pieter
P
Spencer
Paul
P
Parys
Bo T
BT
Oakley
Neil E
NE
D000368:Aged; D004621:Embolization, Therapeutic; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009403:Nephrostomy, Percutaneous / Q000379:methods; D010166:Palliative Care / Q000379:methods; D010386:Pelvic Neoplasms / Q000150:complications / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014548:Urinary Fistula / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D014549:Urinary Incontinence / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*