Cystoplasty using a resorbable polyglactin prosthesis covered by a free peritoneal flap

The bowel is not always suitable for cystoplasty. The use of a vicryl mesh lined with a peritoneal flap was investigated as material for partial replacement of the bladder. The procedure was performed on 20 rats divided into two groups. A partial cystectomy was first performed, then a cystoplasty was done using either a free peritoneal flap (group 1) or a vicryl mesh combined with a peritoneal flap (group 2). The results were evaluated using intravenous pyelography, macroscopic examination and histological analysis within one month. In group 1 (7 cases), there was one urinary fistula. In group 2 (13 cases), no fistula was observed but stones occurred in three cases. The histological analysis revealed good reconstruction of urothelium in both groups. Partial resorption of vicryl was observed at one month with organization of neo-muscular fibers. The vicryl prosthesis was well accepted and, when covered by a peritoneal flap, provided a strong and water-tight material for bladder replacement. The vicryl mesh increased the risk of stone formation in the presence of urinary tract infection.