Protective temporary vesicostomy for upper urinary tract problems in children: a five-year experience

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Surgical Procedures
• Urinary Tract Health

Background:

• Upper urinary tract (UUT) dilatation can result from bladder outlet obstruction or dysfunction.
• Temporary vesicostomy serves as a urinary diversion for affected children.
• Evaluating the efficacy of vesicostomy in pediatric cases is crucial for optimizing treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of temporary vesicostomy in children.
• To analyze its impact on preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• To evaluate improvements in hydronephrosis, kidney function, and UUT health.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 53 children undergoing Blocksom technique vesicostomy.
• Data collected on demographics, diagnoses, complications, and outcomes.
• Outcomes graded using a Lickert scale (0-10) to assess efficacy.

Main Results:

• High rates of posterior urethral valve (66%) and neurogenic bladder (30%) were observed.
• Successful treatment outcomes included 85% for UTIs, 82.7% for hydronephrosis, and 86.5% for kidney function.
• Vesicostomy was reversible, with 35 patients having the procedure closed successfully.

Conclusions:

• Vesicostomy is a safe and effective procedure for protecting the pediatric upper urinary tract.
• It successfully decreases hydronephrosis and improves renal function.
• Consider vesicostomy for children unresponsive to conservative or medical management.