[Efficacy analysis of laparoscopy combined with flexible ureteroscope in the treatment of complex ureteral stricture].

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a dual-endoscopic technique combining laparoscopy/robot-assisted laparoscopy with disposable flexible ureteroscopy for intraoperative localization and reconstruction in complex ureteral strictures.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 21 patients with complex ureteral strictures (stenosis length ≥2 cm, multiple strictures, or iatrogenic strictures, or radiation-induced strictures) treated at Peking University People' s Hospital between January 2023 and November 2024. All the patients underwent dual-endoscopic procedures using laparoscopy (n=17) or da Vinci robotic-assisted laparoscopy (n=4) combined with disposable flexible ureteroscopy. Preoperative evaluation included contrast-enhanced CT urography and diuretic renography. Intra-operatively, stricture localization was achieved by synchronizing laparoscopic light sources with ureteroscopic visualization. Surgical positions were optimized: non-split-leg oblique supine position for mid-upper strictures and lithotomy position for mid-lower strictures. Reconstruction strategies (lingual mucosa graft, bladder flap augmentation, or primary anastomosis) were selected based on stricture length and tension. Postoperative outcomes were assessed via symptom resolution, hydronephrosis improvement (ultrasonographic renal pelvis diameter), and stent-free patency.

Results: The cohort included 10 males and 11 females [mean age (44.1±13.3) years]. Etiologies included lithogenic strictures (71.4%, 15/21), post-gynecologic surgery injury (4.8%), radiation-induced fibrosis (4.8%), and congenital factors (19.0%). Intraoperative findings revealed discrepancies in stricture localization compared with pre-operative imaging in 52.4% (11/21) of cases, necessitating extended resection or modified reconstruction. Mean stricture length was (4.81±4.33) cm. Postoperative complications included transient urinary leakage (1 case) and secondary ureteral obstruction due to stone migration (1 case), both resolved without sequelae. At a mean follow-up of (10.76±6.81) months (range 2-21), hydronephrosis significantly improved in all the patients (100% efficacy), with no recurrence of strictures or symptom recurrence.

Conclusion: The dual-endoscopic technique enhances intraoperative precision in complex ureteral stricture management by integrating real-time luminal visualization with extraluminal anatomical guidance. This approach minimizes excessive resection of healthy ureter, optimizes reconstruction strategies, and reduces postoperative recurrence. The modified positioning protocol further improves ergonomic efficiency, making it a reliable and adaptable option for challenging ureteral pathologies.