Transureteroureterostomy in children: a retrospective study

Transureteroureterostomy (TUU) is a urinary reconstructive procedure seldom used but has a role when conventional reconstructive techniques are not possible. However, the concern is whether it places the opposite, non-diseased ureter and kidney at risk. Hence a retrospective study was conducted to evaluate indications, methods, and outcomes of transureteroureterostomy in children. The study included seven children who underwent TUU between January 2011 and December 2015. The mean age of the study group was 4.5 ± 2.9 years. Six (86%) patients were males. Two patients had primary bladder diverticulum, two posterior urethral valves, two cases of vesico-ureteric reflux, and one had a persistent urogenital sinus. All patients presented with recurrent urinary tract infections. Three (43%) patients had bladder outlet obstruction. Four (57%) patients underwent left to right TUU with right ureteric reimplantation. Two (29%) patients underwent an additional procedure. No complications were found. The key to a good outcome in TUU is case selection. Surgical technique plays a very important role in ensuring good long-term outcome without compromising the normal moiety.