Assessing Functional Outcomes and Complications of Studer Ileal Neobladder: A Longitudinal Monocentric Study

Introduction: Studer-type enterocystoplasty represents a urinary diversion technique recommended following cystectomy in the treatment of bladder tumors. Its primary goal is to establish an internal continent neo-reservoir that closely mimics the characteristics of a normal bladder, enabling patients to maintain a regular lifestyle without compromising body image. The study aimed to assess the functional outcomes and morbidity associated with Studer ileal neo-bladder procedures performed at a single center. Methods: Our study took place in the urology department of our hospital from January 2015 to September 2022, involving 26 patients who underwent Studer-type enterocystoplasty. Results: No intraoperative or early postoperative deaths were recorded. The early complications rate stood at 26.9%, with 10 instances observed in six patients. These complications included four cases of acute pyelonephritis (15.4%), three incidents of parietal infections (11.5%), one leaky pouch (3.8%), paralytic ileus (3.8%), and urinary retention due to a mucous plug (3.8%). The number of late complications was 18 in 12 patients, resulting in a rate of 46.1%. These included two cases of uretero-neovesical stenosis (7.7%), two instances of neobladder lithiasis (7.7%), one case of upper urinary tract lithiasis (3.8%), eight cases of recurrent pyelonephritis (30.7%), and five cases of chronic metabolic acidosis (19.2%). Functional results were assessed twice: at 12- and 24-months post-surgery. The daytime continence rates at 12 and 24 months were 69.5% and 90%, respectively, while the night-time continence rates were 65.2% and 81%. Conclusion: Studer-type enterocystoplasty stands out as one of the most effective urinary diversion methods in terms of surgical treatment for bladder tumors due to the highly satisfactory functional results achieved.