Newborn exstrophy closure and epispadias repair

Over the last 150 years, bladder exstrophy has undergone a transition from a primarily nonsurgically treated disease to a disease treated by urinary diversion or staged repair and now, possibly, primary newborn reconstruction. Our enthusiasm for primary reconstruction arises because of its potential to simplify the management of this disorder and optimize the return of normal bladder function for these patients. As with most new concepts, the evolution of our primary reconstruction techniques could not have been achieved without the prior efforts of others. Other surgeons such as H.H. Young and J. Ansell have shown us the possibility of achieving urinary continence with primary newborn exstrophy closure without sacrificing renal function, but the results have been inconsistent in the past. Staged reconstruction for bladder exstrophy demonstrates the possibility to achieve consistent successful rates of continence in these patients. However, multiple surgical procedures are required to attain this success. The preliminary results of our series of primary bladder exstrophy closures has encouraged us to perform it for all neonates referred to our institution with bladder exstrophy as well as to use it as part of staged reconstructive efforts for patients who have undergone primary surgical procedures for exstrophy elsewhere. We are hopeful and optimistic that newborn primary exstrophy closure performed as described herein will produce consistent rates of urinary continence and allow normal voiding function as well.