A prospective randomized study comparing absorbable and nonabsorbable staples in constructing antireflux valves of urethral hemi-Kock pouches.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the long-term complications associated with constructing an antireflux nipple valve using absorbable or nonabsorbable staples in the urethral hemi-Kock pouch. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Fifty patients (all men, median age 47 years, range 28-73) undergoing construction of a urethral hemi-Kock pouch were randomized prospectively into two equal groups. In group 1, absorbable (polyglyconate) staples were used for the construction, and in group 2 nonabsorbable (metal) staples were used but omitting the staples applied at the tip of nipple valve. Assessment during the follow-up of 6-88 months comprised urine analysis, culture and sensitivity, measurement of serum creatinine, electrolytes and blood gases, and plain abdominal radiography, intravenous urography and micturating pouchography. RESULTS: In group 1, 21 patients were evaluable; a pouch stone was detected in one, extussusception of the valve in one and valve stenosis in one. In group 2, 20 patients were evaluable; pouch stones were detected in six, extussusception of the valve in three and valve stenosis in one. CONCLUSION: Compared with nonabsorbable (metal) staples, the use of absorbable (polyglyconate) staples significantly decreased the incidence of pouch stone formation and improved valve stability in patients with a urethral hemi-Kock pouch.