Hinged transpubic approach to delayed repair of posterior urethral distraction defects complicating pelvic fractures — Preliminary experience

• Published in: African journal of urology Vol. 14; no. 2; pp. 75 - 80
• Main Authors: Essiet, A., Ekwere, P. D., Ikpeme, I. A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Paris Springer-Verlag 01.01.2008
• Subjects: Imaging; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Original Article; Radiology; Surgery; Urology; pelvis; Urethra; stricture; rupture; distraction defect; fracture
• ISSN: 1110-5704; 1961-9987
• DOI: 10.1007/s12301-008-0008-x

Objective To present our experience with a transpubic approach to the management of one of the most challenging injuries of the lower urinary tract. Patients and Methods Between January 2003 and December 2005, 7 patients presenting to our unit with complex urethral distraction defects due to type 2 or 3 posterior urethral disruption injuries complicating pelvic fracture were included in an ongoing evaluation of the transpubic approach to the repair of such defects. The patients had a mean age of 37.7 (range 22–56) years and were followed up for 1–4 years. Results After the follow-up period 4 patients had a very successful outcome with trouble-free voiding. Three developed strictures, two of which were successfully managed with regular dilatation, while the third patient became catheter-dependent following dilatation and inadvertent creation of a false passage. This patient underwent a successful re-operation with full recovery. Conclusion The transpubic approach to delayed repair of urethral distraction defects complicating pelvic fracture is feasible. It allows an effective dissection of the dense hematoma-fibrosis that commonly complicates these injuries at a later stage. The approach is particularly useful in complex long-standing defects where such dissection is made relatively easy by the ample working space provided. The successful outcome of treatment by this approach in 4 and ultimately 5 out of 7 patients offers a reasonable degree of salvage for patients with an otherwise poor prognosis. Further studies are warranted to confirm our positive results.