Minimally invasive treatment of vesicoureteral reflux

Matthew H Hayn1, Marc C Smaldone, Michael C Ost

  • 1Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Kaufmann Medical Building, Suite 700, 3471 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA. haynm2@upmc.edu

Insights

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children often resolves spontaneously. High-grade VUR may need surgery, with minimally invasive options like endoscopic and laparoscopic procedures offering reduced morbidity compared to open surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Urology
  • Surgical Innovation

Background:

  • Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) affects 1-2% of children.
  • Mild VUR often resolves spontaneously.
  • High-grade VUR may necessitate surgical intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current endoscopic materials, techniques, and outcomes for VUR treatment.
  • To examine laparoscopic and robotic ureteroneocystotomy techniques and outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on VUR treatments.
  • Analysis of outcomes for endoscopic, laparoscopic, and robotic antireflux procedures.

Main Results:

  • Open antireflux operations are established with low morbidity.
  • Minimally invasive endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques show potential for further morbidity reduction.

Conclusions:

  • Minimally invasive approaches offer promising alternatives for high-grade VUR.
  • Continued evaluation of endoscopic and laparoscopic techniques is essential for optimizing pediatric VUR management.

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