The appendix as a continence mechanism.

Abstract

Although we have progressed very well in creating large capacity, low pressure reservoirs, the construction of a simple and reliable continent outlet still remains a problem. The appendix vermiformis serves well as a continence mechanism for either the bladder or intestinal reservoirs for urine. The different surgical techniques described in the literature are reviewed and discussed in this context. Moreover, we report on our clinical and experimental results of using the appendix during the Mainz pouch procedure for continent urinary diversion.