Ferdinand Frauscher MD, PRESENTER: Nothing to Disclose

Abstract: HTML Purpose: In a previous study contrast-enhanced color Doppler imaging (CDI) proved capable of detecting crossing vessels at the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ). In the present long-term follow-up study contrast-enhanced CDI findings and clinical outcome of these patients with crossing vessels at the obstructed UPJ, who underwent laparoscopic pyeloplasty were evaluated. Methods and Materials: A total of 23 patients, who had undergone laparoscopic pyeloplasty and displacement of crossing vessels for UPJ obstruction, at least 2 years prior to this study (mean: 27 months), underwent contrast enhanced CDI and intravenous pyelography (IVP). Contrast-enhanced CDI was performed using intravenously administered Levovist to assess the displacement of the vessels relative to the UPJ. All patients completed analog follow-up pain scales and quality of life assessment questionnaires. Results: Contrast-enhanced CDI revealed a cranial displacement (mean 1.3 cm) of the crossing vessels from the UPJ in all 23 cases. IVP showed a decrease in the degree of hydronephrosis with a success rate of 100% in low-grade and 86% in high-grade hydronephrosis. Analog pain scale measurements demonstrated a 92% mean improvement in pain (range 73 to 100) and a mean quality of life of 94 (range 78 to 100). Conclusion: Our series of patients with crossing vessels at the UPJ treated by laparoscopic pyeloplasty showed an excellent long-term successful outcome. Contrast-enhanced CDI allows for preoperative detection as well as postoperative assessment of the displacement of the crossing vessel. We recommend that the presence of a crossing vessel should be routinely determined preoperatively since it may influence the choice of the treatment modality and thereby the clinical outcome.       Questions about this event email: ferdinand.frauscher@uibk.ac.at

Frauscher MD, F, Contrast-enhanced Color Doppler Findings and Long-term Outcome in Patients Treated with Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty for UPJ-obstruction with Crossing Vessels.  Radiological Society of North America 2003 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 30 - December 5, 2003 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2003/3103284.html