Anti-reflux surgery by injection of Teflon paste

Over a 3-year period, 55 refluxing ureters in 36 patients were treated by the endoscopic injection of Teflon paste. Although reflux was corrected immediately in 54 ureters (98%), reflux recurred 3 to 4 months later in 18 ureters. Reinjection was carried out once in 5 ureters and twice in 1. The success rate was 71% in primary reflux and 53% in secondary reflux. Significant side effects were encountered post-operatively in 3 patients: vesicoureteric junction obstruction in 2 and urethral stricture in 1. We recommend that the results of surgery should not be evaluated until at least 3 to 4 months after operation. A review of the literature shows that the overall success rate was 92% in 367 ureters with primary reflux and 70% in 181 ureters with secondary reflux. Because of the uncertain outcome of surgery and the possibility of adverse side effects, one should be cautious when considering this form of treatment in young children.