Algorithm for the treatment of patients with obstructive uropathy secondary to prostate cancer

Background: One of the prostate cancer progression complications is the obstructive uropathy, by infiltration and compression of the distal ureteral section, that can entail to an acute renal insufficiency, with affectation of the quality of life and the survival of these patients. The treatment of prostate cancer with secondary ureterohidronefrosis is palliative and following the present tendencies, the positioning of a nephrostomy is considered. Materials and Methods: A search was made in PUBMED and the most representative articles were reviewed. The algorithm was constructed with the daily routine clinical base, the protocol of our center and with the scientific evidence available in medical literature. Results: An algorithm of decisions sets out to define the urinary derivation in patients with obstructive uropathy secondary to prostate cancer. Conclusions: The indication to place a nephrostomy in patients with obstructive uropathy secondary to prostate cancer must be approached individually, according to the general conditions and the quality of life of the patient with base in scales defined in literature (ECOG and Karnofsky) and in factors of good or bad prognosis, always considering ethical considerations and the consent of the patient and his family.