Caecocystoplasty for Intractable Interstitial Cystitis: Long-Term Results

Objective: To evaluate the role of orthotopic substitution caecocystoplasty in intractable interstitial cystitis refractory to conservative measures by looking at long-term follow-up results. Patients and Methods: We present a retrospective review of eleven patients who underwent a trigone-preserving orthotopic substitution caecocystoplasty for intractable classical interstitial cystitis. All patients received conservative treatment for a mean period of three years. They were followed up for a mean period of nine years (range 4–14 years) with evaluation of symptoms, biochemistry, ultrasound scan and flexible cystoscopy. Results: Symptomatic relief was universal with an increase of bladder capacity to normal. There was no mortality and the postoperative morbidity was minimal. Intermittent self-catheterisation due to high residual volumes was necessary in two patients. There was no significant urinary reflux or metabolic complications noted. Two patients required a cystectomy after four and six years respectively due to recurrent trigonal disease in one and urethro-trigonal hypersensitivity following intermittent self-catheterisation in the other patient. One patient developed an advanced adenocarcinoma in the caecal segment seven years following the primary operation. Conclusion: A sustained relief of symptoms is noted after trigone-preserving orthotopic substitution caecocystoplasty in intractable classical interstitial cystitis. It may not be appropriate in patients with urethro-trigonal disease or hypersensitivity. There is low long-term morbidity due to the operation but is associated with malignancy in the augmentate. Long-term follow-up is necessary to identify malignant change in the bladder.