Single-dose intravesical chemotherapy after nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma

Background Single-dose, postoperative intravesical chemotherapy reduces the risk of bladder cancer recurrence after transurethral resection of bladder tumours. However, there is limited evidence whether single-dose intravesical chemotherapy is similarly effective at preventing bladder cancer recurrence after nephroureterectomy. Objectives To assess the effects of single-dose intravesical chemotherapy instillation after nephroureterectomy for upper tract urothelial carcinoma. Search methods We performed a comprehensive literature search using multiple databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and LILACS), trials registries, other sources of grey literature, and conference proceedings published up to April 15 2019, with no restrictions on language or status of publication. Selection criteria We included randomised controlled trials in which participants either received or did not receive single-dose intravesical chemotherapy instillation after nephroureterectomy. Data collection and analysis Two review authors screened and independently assessed studies and extracted data from included studies. We performed statistical analyses using a random-effects model. We rated the certainty of evidence according to the GRADE approach. Main results The search identified two studies (a multicenter study from Japan and the United Kingdom) with 361 participants.