What is a continent urinary diversion?

A continent urinary diversion involves creating a new reservoir for urine using a section of the intestines, which allows urine to be stored inside the body rather than being expelled continuously. This technique is commonly used in patients who have undergone bladder removal due to cancer or other conditions. The reservoir formed from intestinal tissue connects to the ureters, which transport urine from the kidneys. The patient is able to control voiding through a catheterization process, making it a "continent" option as opposed to an external drainage method.

This approach not only helps maintain a sense of bodily function but also improves the patient's quality of life, as they can manage their urination in a more discreet and controlled manner. It contrasts with options such as simply removing the bladder, restructuring the renal pelvis, or inserting a catheter for ongoing drainage, which do not provide the controlled urinary function that characterizes a continent diversion.