Ureteroiliac fistula: a late sequela of radiotherapy and long-term ureteric stent placement

Although often described in the literature as rare, the reported incidence of ureteroarterial fistula has increased over the past 10 years.1 This may be attributed to more aggressive treatment regimes, the more widespread use of radiation therapy and longer survival of patients. Patients who are at risk of such fistulae include those who have undergone prior pelvic surgery, prolonged ureteral stenting, radiation therapy, previous vascular surgery and who have pre-existing vascular pathology. Mortalities for ureteroarterial fistulae are high, primarily due to delays in diagnosis and treatment.1,2. We report a case of ureteroiliac fistula secondary to radiation therapy and long-term ureteric stenting treated endovascularly using a covered stentgraft (Wallgraft, Boston Scientific, Newton, MA). © 2006 The Royal College of Radiologists.