Routine annual imaging does not aid in diagnosing new functional complications more than five years after RC with ileal conduit

Abstract This study assessed the value of routine annual imaging in identifying functional complications (uretero-enteric structure (UES) and urolithiasis) more than 5 years after radical cystectomy (RC) with ileal conduit. A total of eighty-two patients were included, with a mean follow-up of 7.3 years after RC. In total during the follow-up period more than 5 years after RC, 202 ultrasound examinations and 71 CT scans were performed. New or progressive hydronephrosis was identified in six imaging examinations (2.2%) involving six patients (7.3%). No UES were diagnosed through routine annual imaging; one UES was detected following symptom-driven diagnostic imaging. Routine annual imaging therefore does not significantly contribute to the detection of UES during the follow-up period beyond 5 years after RC. Imaging should be performed only when clinically indicated.