title: A more "conventional" way to perform percutaneous endopyeloplasty: a feasibility study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Percutaneous endopyeloplasty is a horizontal suturing of the endopyelotomy incision via a unique percutaneous tract. We present a feasibility study of our technique of percutaneous endopyeloplasty using a conventional suture with a laparoscopic needle holder via the nephroscope.
  
  
  METHODS
  A longitudinal endopyelotomy incision is performed through a 24-Fr working sheath placed via an upper calyx. Then an initial suture is placed, approximating the endopyelotomy incision distal and proximal apex, using a conventional absorbable 13-mm needle suture with a lengthened 3.5-mm pediatric laparoscopic needle holder, via the nephroscope. If possible, an additional 2 sutures are eventually placed, 1 on either side of the initial midline suture.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Percutaneous endopyeloplasty, using a conventional suture with a pediatric laparoscopic needle holder via a nephroscope, is technically possible, reproducible, and effective, and was performed in 10 consecutive patients. The tissue approximation provides a fast, full thickness ureteral healing. Endopyelotomy horizontal suturing leads to a wider caliber reconstruction of the ureteropelvic junction.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Percutaneous endopyeloplasty is a promising technique. Our procedure for endopyeloplasty is technically feasible and effective, with little need for highly specialized equipment. However, further technical experience and longer follow-up in a larger group of patients are necessary for more development of this technique.
authors: Department of Urology, Military Hospital Moulay Ismail, Meknès, Morocco. lezrekmohamed@yahoo.com
authors: Mohammed
authors: M
authors: Lezrek
authors: Khalil
authors: K
authors: Bazine
authors: Kamal
authors: K
authors: Moufid
authors: Mohammed
authors: M
authors: Asseban
authors: Abdelmounim
authors: A
authors: Qarro
authors: Mohammed
authors: M
authors: Alami
authors: Amoqrane
authors: A
authors: Beddouch
mesh_terms: D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007682:Kidney Pelvis / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D019060:Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods; D009403:Nephrostomy, Percutaneous / Q000379:methods*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D013536:Suture Techniques; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014517:Ureteral Obstruction / Q000601:surgery*