ABSTRACT
Recent advances in surgical technique, the successful application of intermittent catheterization to the reconstructed urinary tract, and the lessons learned from the pioneering work on urinary undiversion have allowed patients to be reconstructed for continence as well as for preservation of renal function. Such reconstructive principles may now be applied to virtually all urinary tract anomalies with a good expectation for success. Reconstructive options are now available even for those patients with end-stage renal disease for whom renal transplantation will ultimately be required. The goals of reconstructive surgery are a large bladder capacity and a low pressure reservoir. These will help to ensure continence as well as a protective influence on the upper urinary tract. Adequate bladder outlet resistance must be provided to prevent incontinence, hopefully without sacrificing the potential for spontaneous voiding. Access for a quick, easy and painless catheterization is also critical.
