Conservative vs. surgical treatment of vesicoureteral reflux

The treatment of choice in vesicoureteral reflux in children is discussed on the basis of experience with 160 refluxing ureters. Two-thirds of the ureters responded well to conservative nonsurgical treatment and the majority of these are now completely cured. Thirty-three ureters, not responding to conservative measures, were treated surgically by the Leadbetter-Politano or Bischoff methods. It is concluded that 1) conservative treatment should be attempted before recourse to surgery and 2) Bischoff's technique should be given first consideration in cases with dilated and poorly functioning ureters.