Minimal invasive management of bladder neck contracture using Allium round posterior stent: the long-term results

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term clinical efficacy of temporary, Allium round posterior stent (RPS) used for treatment of recurrent bladder neck contracture (BNC). METHODS: Records of 42 patients with recurrent BNC who underwent Allium RPS placement after bladder neck incision, between 2009 and 2019, were analyzed. After stent removal, the success criteria for Allium RPS treatment were defined as: no evidence of stricture on urethrogram or endoscopy; more than 12 ml/sec of urinary peak flow; and no recurrent urinary tract infections. Based on clinical success, patients were divided into two groups and compared. Clinical success was evaluated with particular regard to stent indwelling time and contracture etiology. RESULTS: The mean ± standard deviation age, stricture length, and indwelling time were 66.7 ± 9 years, 2.4 ± 1.4 cm, and 7.7 ± 2.2 months, respectively. Median (range) follow-up was 59 (8–73) months. The etiologies of BNC in this cohort were 57.1% retropubic radical prostatectomy; and 42.9% transurethral resection of prostate. Overall clinical success was achieved in 64.3% and the success rates did not differ by etiology. The success rates were 54.2% and 77.8% (P = 0.118) for retropubic radical prostatectomy and transurethral resection of prostate, respectively. Longer indwelling time (8–14 vs 3–7, months) was significantly associated with clinical success (78.3% vs 47.4%, P = 0.040). CONCLUSION: Our data suggest that better clinical success was associated with longer indwelling time for stent in BNC treatment. In BNC management, Allium RPS treatment may be considered since its clinical efficacy is acceptable and tolerable.