URETERAL OBSTRUCTION AFTER RADICAL HYSTERECTOMY

Two patients with invasive carcinoma of the cervix treated with radica l hysterectomy developed total unilateral ureteric obstruction postope ratively. A temporary percutaneous nephrostomy was inserted. Because b oth patients needed adjuvant radiotherapy, intended reimplantation of the meter was postponed. During this period spontaneous passage throug h the meter was observed after 5 and 14 weeks, respectively. It is emp hasized that a 'wait and see' policy may be justifiable in the case of ureteric obstruction of unclear etiology after radical hysterectomy f or at least 3 months, as long as renal function is preserved by percut aneous nephrostomy drainage of the affected kidney side.