Urodynamic Evaluation: Is It Useful for Vesicoureteral Reflux Management?

Background: Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a common childhood condition where urine flows backward from the bladder to the kidney, affecting 2-5 per 1000 live births. There is still no consensus on VUR diagnostic procedures, treatment options, or the most effective timing of treatment. This study aimed to identify factors influencing VUR management timing, with a focus on the role of urodynamic assessment. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 100 children with VUR, splitting them into two groups: 50 who received urodynamic assessment and 50 who did not. The median age at diagnosis for both groups was 2 years (ranging from 1 month to 14 years). The children's medical records were analyzed to determine gender, age at VUR diagnosis and its resolution, grade, and laterality. Additionally, we recorded the clinical history of bladder dysfunction, recurrent UTIs, and renal function parameters. For those who had urodynamic assessments, we also evaluated the age at initial testing and its findings. Results: Significant differences in treatment duration were found between the study groups: 1.17 years for the group after urodynamic assessment versus 2.83 years for the group without urodynamics (p < 0.001 *). The majority of patients assessed urodynamically had an overactive bladder (52%). Conclusions: Urodynamic assessment and effective treatment of bladder dysfunction accelerate VUR resolution.