Objectives To examine the durability of open pyeloplasty for pelvi-ureteric
junction obstruction.
Patients and methods The records of 56 Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasties underta
ken by two surgeons between 1981 and 1994 were examined. Attempts were made
to trace all patients and for them to undergo diuretic renography to exami
ne the current status of the operated renal unit.
Results In all, 41 evaluable patients were identified; 24 agreed to return
for reassessment. The mean (range) time from surgery was 10.6 (6-19) years.
The results showed an improvement over the preoperative split renal functi
on in 19 patients (79%) and an improvement in drainage in 23 (96%).
Conclusions The Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty is an excellent procedure for tr
eating pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction, and produces a lasting improvem
ent in function and drainage in most patients. It is the 'gold standard' ag
ainst which newer techniques should be compared.