Endoscopic balloon dilatation in primary obstructive megaureter: Long-term results

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Endourology

Background:

• Primary obstructive megaureter (POM) is traditionally treated with open neoureterocystostomy.
• Endoscopic balloon dilation offers a minimally invasive alternative.
• Long-term efficacy data for balloon dilation in POM is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term results and complications of balloon dilation for treating primary obstructive megaureter in infants.
• To assess the durability of endoscopic balloon dilation as a definitive treatment for POM.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of infant patients with POM treated with balloon dilation.
• Diagnosis confirmed via ultrasonography, diuretic isotopic renogram, and voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG).
• Follow-up included serial imaging and clinical assessments up to 12.2 years.

Main Results:

• No intraoperative complications were noted in 13 treated patients (7 boys, 6 girls).
• Four patients developed post-operative urinary tract infections (UTIs); one stent required repositioning.
• All patients achieved non-obstructive renograms 6 months post-procedure and maintained results long-term (median 10.3 years).

Conclusions:

• Endoscopic balloon dilation is a safe and effective long-term treatment for primary obstructive megaureter in infants.
• The procedure demonstrates good outcomes and durability, supporting its role as a definitive treatment.
• Further studies are recommended to solidify these long-term findings.