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10:19
Evaluation of Biomaterials for Bladder Augmentation using Cystometric Analyses in Various Rodent Models
Published on: August 9, 2012
Bladder stones in Afghan children.
Paul Brisson1, Michael Woll, David Parker
1Department of Surgery, Fort Belvoir Community Hospital, 9300 DeWitt Loop, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060, USA.
Military Medicine
|December 4, 2012
Summary
Military surgeons in Afghanistan managed pediatric bladder stones, a common issue in the region. The Forward Surgical Team (FST) diagnosed and treated cases, referring some to regional hospitals.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Global Health
Background:
- Military surgeons have provided humanitarian care in Afghanistan since 2002.
- Published reports detailing this care are limited.
- Bladder stones in children are an endemic problem in Afghanistan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the experience of deployed U.S. Army general surgeons in managing pediatric bladder stones in Afghanistan.
- To analyze the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of bladder stones in Afghan children.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of pediatric patients at a humanitarian clinic from October 2010 to November 2011.
- Analysis of symptoms, diagnostic methods (including portable ultrasound), and treatments provided.
- Surgical consultations by the 126th Forward Surgical Team (FST) on a remote base.
Main Results:
- Eight male pediatric patients (average age 4 years) presented with dysuria.
- Portable ultrasound diagnosed bladder stones in five patients; three had prior Afghan clinic ultrasounds.
- Four patients underwent surgical removal by the FST; four were referred to a regional hospital, including one with recurrent stones.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric bladder stones are frequently encountered by military and humanitarian surgeons in rural Afghanistan.
- Dysuria is a common presenting symptom.
- The FST can diagnose and treat bladder stones, with Afghan regional hospitals offering definitive surgical care.
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