OBJECTIVE The remaining bladder is an almost forgotten entity. We analyzed the literature and present patient data from our institution. RESULTS We studied patients at our institution who received a supravesical urinary diversion without concomitant cystectomy and reviewed the relevant literature to extract pros and cons for daily practice. This retrospective study was performed in nine patients at our institution (seven women and two men) with a median age of 40 years who underwent supravesical urinary diversion without concomitant cystectomy between 1972 and 2008 for benign conditions such as incontinence, neurogenic bladder or bilateral megaureters. The median follow-up was 10 years. Additionally we performed an extensive literature search where all such patients who underwent urinary diversion without concomitant cystectomy for benign indications were identified in different retrospective analyses by various authors. RESULTS The most common complications were pyocystis (2/9), bleeding (3/9), and pain-related symptoms (1/9). Secondary carcinoma occurred in two cases. Secondary cystectomy was performed in one patient. In one patient the creation of a vesicovaginal fistula resolved the pyocystis completely. CONCLUSIONS The indication to leave the bladder in situ requires individual considerations. Due to potential complications and the progress in surgery with regards to maintaining sexual function a cystectomy should be offered to young patients. In the aging patient however a defunctionalized bladder can be discussed. The urologist should be aware of the potential complications and perform regular follow-up.