OUTCOME ANALYSIS OF VESICOAMNIOTIC SHUNTING IN A COMPREHENSIVE POPULATION

Single-center outcome analysis of 46 fetuses with megacystis after intrauterine vesico-amniotic shunting with the Somatex®intrauterine shunt

OBJECTIVES

To assess the spectrum of underlying pathologies, the intrauterine course and postnatal outcome of 46 fetuses with megacystis that underwent intrauterine vesico-amniotic shunting (VAS) with the Somatex® shunt in a single center.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 46 fetuses with megacystis that underwent VAS either up to 14 + 0 weeks (early VAS), between 14 + 1 and 17 + 0 weeks (intermediate VAS) or after 17 + 0 weeks of gestation (late VAS) in a single tertiary referral center. Intrauterine course, underlying pathology and postnatal outcome were assessed and correlated with the underlying pathology and gestational age at first VAS.

RESULTS

46 fetuses underwent VAS, 41 (89%) were male and 5 (11%) were female. 28 (61%) fetuses had isolated and 18 (39%) had complex megacystis with either aneuploidy (n = 1), anorectal malformations (n = 6), cloacal malformations (n = 3), congenital anomalies overlapping with VACTER association (n = 6) or Megacystis-Microcolon Intestinal-Hypoperistalsis Syndrome (MMIHS) (n = 2). The sonographic 'keyhole sign' significantly predicted isolated megacystis (p < 0.001). 7 pregnancies were terminated, 4 babies died in the neonatal period, 1 baby died at the age of 2.5 months and 34 (74%) infants survived until last follow-up. After exclusion of the terminated pregnancies, intention-to-treat survival rate was 87%. Mean follow-up period was 24 months (range 1-72). The underlying pathology was highly variable and included posterior urethral valve (46%), hypoplastic or atretic urethra (35%), MMIHS or prune belly syndrome (10%) and primary vesico-ureteral reflux (2%). In 7% no pathology could be detected postnatally. No sonographic marker was identified to predict the underlying pathology prenatally. 14 fetuses underwent early, 24 intermediate and 8 late VAS. In the early VAS subgroup, amnion infusion prior to VAS was significantly less often necessary (7%), shunt complications were significantly less common (29%) and immediate kidney replacement therapy postnatally became less often necessary (0%). In contrast, preterm delivery ≤ 32 + 0 weeks was more common (30%) and survival rate was lower (70%) after early VAS compared to intermediate or late VAS. Overall, 90% of liveborn babies had sufficient kidney function without need for kidney replacement therapy until last follow-up, and 95% had sufficient pulmonary function without need for mechanical respiratory support. 18% of babies with complex megacystis suffered from additional health restrictions due to their major concomitant malformations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that VAS is feasible from the first trimester onward. Early intervention has the potential to preserve neonatal kidney function in the majority of cases and enables neonatal survival in up to 87% of cases. Despite successful fetal intervention, parents should be aware of the potential of mid- or long-term kidney failure and of additional health impairments due to concomitant extra-renal anomalies that cannot be excluded at time of intervention.

Persistent Anhydramnios and Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction in a Patient With a Vesicoamniotic Shunt

Persistent anhydramnios after placement of a vesicoamniotic shunt is a rare but potentially serious concern in a patient in utero. We present the case a male fetus who at 32-week gestation had bilateral hydroureteronephrosis, a distended bladder, and anhydramnios. A vesicoamniotic shunt was placed, but the anhydramnios persisted. Postnatally, the child was found to have a migrated shunt, left grade V vesicoureteral reflux and posterior urethral valves. He underwent a posterior urethral valves ablation and removal of the migrated shunt. The patient is now 2 years old and is doing well with no urinary tract infections or renal deterioration.

Urethroplasty with balloon catheterization in fetal lower urinary tract obstruction: observational study of 10 fetuses

OBJECTIVE

To present the preliminary outcomes of fetal urethroplasty using a coronary angioplasty balloon catheter in lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO).

METHODS

We included 10 consecutive male fetuses diagnosed with LUTO caused by presumed isolated posterior urethral valves (PUVs), who underwent urethroplasty with a balloon catheter in our center between 2015 and 2018. During urethroplasty, the fetal urethra was dilated using a balloon catheter (diameter, 0.014 inches; balloon size, 2 × 9 mm) inserted under ultrasonographic guidance via an 18-gauge needle introduced into the fetal bladder.

RESULTS

Mean gestational age at the time of urethroplasty was 17.8 (range, 16.5-20.4) weeks. All fetuses survived the procedure without any complications and there was no case of preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes. The procedure was successful in 5/10 (50%) fetuses, while in the other five (50%), we were unable to insert the balloon catheter into the urethra. In the five successfully treated cases, mean gestational age at delivery was 38 (range, 36-40) weeks and presence of PUVs was confirmed after birth. All five neonates micturated spontaneously and presented with normal urine output after birth. During the follow-up period, the parameters of kidney function were within normal limits in two neonates, whereas signs of impaired renal function were seen in another two. The other was diagnosed with renal insufficiency and required kidney transplant with bladder sparing at 2 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS

Urethroplasty with a balloon catheter is a new prenatal treatment option for fetuses with PUVs. By restoring fetal micturition, the procedure can preserve normal urinary bladder and kidney function. Although data on its efficacy and potential to differentiate the etiology of LUTO are sparse, a significant advantage of this method is its safety for the fetus and the mother. Even if the neonates develop renal insufficiency, they may be eligible for kidney transplant with connection to their own bladder, without the need for urostomy. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Current perspective and scope of fetal therapy: part 1

Fetal therapy term has been described for any therapeutic intervention either invasive or noninvasive for the purpose of correcting or treating any fetal malformation or condition. Fetal therapy is a rapidly evolving specialty and has gained pace in last two decades and now fetal intervention is being tried in many malformations with rate of success varying with the type of different fetal conditions. The advances in imaging techniques have allowed fetal medicine persons to make earlier and accurate diagnosis of numerous fetal anomalies. Still many fetal anomalies are managed postnatally because the fetal outcomes have not changed significantly with the use of fetal therapy and this approach avoids unnecessary maternal risk secondary to inutero intervention. The short-term maternal risk associated with fetal surgery includes preterm labor, premature rupture of membranes, uterine wall bleeding, chorioamniotic separation, placental abruption, chorioamnionitis, and anesthesia risk. Whereas, maternal long-term complications include risk of infertility, uterine rupture, and need for cesarean section in future pregnancies. The decision for invasive fetal therapy should be taken after discussion with parents about the various aspects like postnatal fetal outcome without fetal intervention, possible outcome if the fetal intervention is done, available postnatal intervention for the fetal condition, and possible short-term and long-term maternal complications. The center where fetal intervention is done should have facility of multi-disciplinary team to manage both maternal and fetal complications. The major issues in the development of fetal surgery include selection of patient for intervention, crafting effective fetal surgical skills, requirement of regular fetal and uterine monitoring, effective tocolysis, and minimizing fetal and maternal fetal risks. This review will cover the surgical or invasive aspect of fetal therapy with available evidence and will highlight the progress made in the management of fetal malformations in last two decades.

Neurodevelopmental Outcome in Infants with Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction Based on Different Degrees of Severity

OBJECTIVE

To determine postnatal neurodevelopmental (ND) outcomes for children with congenital lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) based on disease severity.

METHODS

Twenty male infants with LUTO were classified prenatally as Stage 1 (normal amniotic fluid and renal function; n = 5), Stage 2 (signs of obstruction with preserved renal function; n = 13), and Stage 3 (signs of severe renal damage; n = 2). ND status was assessed using the Developmental Profile-3 test in 5 developmental domains (physical, adaptive behavior, social-emotional, cognitive, and communication). Each domain was considered to be delayed if standard scores were 2 or more SD below the mean. ND outcomes were compared between cases with an expected normal renal function (LUTO Stage 1) and those with impaired renal function (LUTO Stages 2 and 3). Results from cases with Stage 2 were also compared to those from Stage 3. ORs were calculated to predict risk for adverse ND outcome for each domain considering prenatal and postnatal factors.

RESULTS

Gestational age (GA) at the diagnosis of LUTO was similar between both groups (Stage 1: 24.85 ± 7.87 vs. Stages 2 and 3: 21.4 ± 4.31 weeks; p = 0.24). Twelve of 15 cases with Stage 2 or 3 underwent vesicoamniotic shunt placement compared to none of Stage 1 fetuses (p < 0.01). No differences in GA at delivery were detected between the groups (37.9 ± 1.6 vs. 35.1 ± 3.6 weeks; p = 0.1). One of the infants in the Stage 2 and 3 groups received a kidney transplant during follow-up. One case (20%) from Stage 1 group required dialysis during the first 6 months of life, and 1 case from Stage 2 to 3 group required it during the first 6 months (p = 1.0), whereas 3 additional cases needed dialysis from 6 to 24 months (p = 0.6). Mean age at Developmental Profile 3 (DP-3) testing was 20.3 ± 12.3 months (Stage 1: 11.2 ± 8.6 vs. Stages 2 and 3: 23.4 ± 13.4 months; p = 0.07). Fifteen of the 20 patients (75%) had no ND delays. Of the 5 patients with ND delays, 4 received dialysis. No differences in ND outcomes between infants with LUTO Stage 1 and those with Stages 2 and 3 were detected except for a trend toward better physical development in Stage 1 (102.6 ± 11.6 vs. 80.7 ± 34.9; p = 0.05). Infants diagnosed with LUTO Stage 3 showed significantly lower adaptive scores than those diagnosed with Stage 2 (Stage 2: 101.9 ± 22.3 vs. Stage 3: 41.5 ± 30.4; p = 0.04) and a nonsignificant trend for lower results in physical (85.8 ± 33.0 vs. 47.5 ± 38.9; p = 0.1) and socio-emotional (94.7 ±17.9 vs. 73.5 ± 13.4; p = 0.1) domains. Infants who received dialysis showed 15-fold increased risk (95% CI 0.89-251) for delayed socio-emotional development (p = 0.06). Diagnosis of fetal renal failure increased the risk for delays in the adaptive domain 30-fold (95% CI 1.29-93.1; p = 0.03). Infants with abnormal renal function had 19 times (95% CI 1.95-292) increased risk for delays in the physical domain (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

While most patients with LUTO do not exhibiting ND delays, our results support the importance of ND monitoring, especially in severe forms of LUTO, as increased severity of this condition may be associated with poorer ND outcomes.

Fetal Cystoscopy and Vesicoamniotic Shunting in Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction: Long-Term Outcome and Current Technical Limitations

BACKGROUND

In utero therapeutic approaches for lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) have been developed to salvage the fetal kidney function.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work was to report the long-term survival, nephrological, and urological outcome of children treated prenatally for LUTO using operative fetal cystoscopy (FC) and vesicoamniotic shunting (VAS) or both.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 48 procedures (23 FC, 25 VAS) was performed on 33 patients (between 2008 and 2018). Reviewed data included prenatal management and clinical follow-up by a pediatric nephrologist and a pediatric urologist. Both intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were conducted.

RESULTS

The median follow-up was 3.6 years (0.5-7) for FC and 2.5 years (1.1-5.1) for VAS. There was no difference between FC and VAS in terms of survival (92 vs. 83%, p = 1), complication rate (74 vs. 92%, p = 0.88), or chronic kidney disease (58 vs. 50%, p = 1). The number of procedures was higher in the VAS group: 1.7 (1-3) versus 1.1 (1-2), p = 0.01. With a 30% rate of technical failure, FC added diagnostic value in 3 out of 21 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

No difference was found between FC and VAS regarding survival, long-term kidney function, or urological outcome. Despite overly optimistic reports on FC, it lacks reproducibility due to posterior-urethra inadequate visualization and inappropriate instrumentation.

Antenatal intervention for congenital fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO): a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of antenatal intervention for the treatment of congenital lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) in improving perinatal survival and postnatal renal function.Methods: Electronic databases were searched from their inception until May 2018. Selection criteria included randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized studies including fetuses with ultrasound evidence of LUTO evaluating antenatal intervention for improving perinatal outcomes. Any type of antenatal bladder drainage technique was analyzed. The primary outcome was perinatal survival. The secondary outcome was postnatal survival with normal renal function. The summary measures were reported as summary odds ratio (OR) with 95% of confidence interval (CI).Results: Ten articles with a total of 355 fetuses were included in the meta-analysis. Inclusion criteria of the selected studies were singleton pregnancy with severe LUTO confirmed on detailed fetal ultrasound examination. Nine studies analyzed the efficacy of vesico-amniotic shunt performed in the second trimester. The overall estimate survival was higher in the vesico-amniotic shunt group compared to the conservative group (OR: 2.54, 95% CI: 1.14-5.67). 64/112 fetuses (57.1%) survived in the vesico-amniotic shunt group compared to 52/134 (38.8%) in the control group. Five studies reported on postnatal renal function between 6 months and 2 years. Rate of good postnatal renal function was higher in the vesico-amniotic shunt group compared to the conservative group (OR: 2.09, 95% CI: 0.74-5.9). Fetal cystoscopy was performed in only two included studies. Overall, 45 fetuses underwent fetal cystoscopy. The perinatal survival was higher in the cystoscopy group compared to the conservative management group (OR: 2.63, 95% CI: 1.07-6.47). Normal renal function was noted in 13/34 fetuses in the cystoscopy group versus 12/61 in the conservative management group at 6 months follow-up (OR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.05-2.92)Conclusions: Antenatal bladder drainage appears to improve perinatal survival in cases of LUTO.

Long-term outcomes of kidney and bladder function in patients with a posterior urethral valve

We investigated long-term functional changes in the kidney and bladder of patients with posterior urethral valve (PUV) who underwent fetal intervention or postnatal surgery.We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 28 consecutive patients treated for PUV at our institution. Detailed data on medical and surgical histories, particularly on pre- and postnatal treatment modality, including fetal vesicoamniotic shunt, endoscopic valve ablation, and vesicostomy, were collected and analyzed. Long-term renal function was evaluated based on serum levels of creatinine (sCr), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and renal scans. Voiding function was evaluated in urodynamic tests.Vesicoamniotic shunting was performed in 12 (42.8%) patients. Although the mean initial sCr was significantly higher in patients in whom a fetal shunt was placed than in others (2.04 vs 1.17 mg/L, P = .038), the sCr at long-term follow-up was not significantly different between them (0.64 vs 0.40 mg/L, P = .186). The mean maximum detrusor pressure was significantly lower in patients with a fetal shunt than in others (37.7 vs 73.0 cm H2O, P = .019). Postnatal vesicostomy was performed in 14 patients, and primary valve ablation was performed in 13 patients. The mean initial sCr was higher in patients in the vesicostomy group than in the primary valve ablation group (2.08 vs 0.86 mg/L, P = .014). However, no significant differences were found in sCr (0.9 vs 0.3 mg/L, P = .252) or GFR (59.1 vs 68.5 mL/min/1.73 m, P = .338) at long-term follow-up. Bladder capacity was greater and residual urine volume was less in the vesicostomy group than in the primary valve ablation group, but without statistical significance.Vesicostomy is more beneficial in the recovery of renal function and is not inferior in terms of bladder function, even in patients with severe PUV disorder. It is a reliable surgical option that can spare renal function and guarantee adequate bladder function in the long term.

Current State of Fetal Intervention for Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

In this article, we explore the origins of intervention of fetal lower urinary tract obstruction, and we specifically discuss the background and recent outcomes of vesicoamniotic shunt placement and fetal cystoscopy. The article seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the field while bringing the reader quickly up to speed on the pertinent literature and the critical data that are available to guide decision-making regarding intervention.

RECENT FINDINGS

Appropriate patient selection for fetal intervention remains challenging despite advances in prenatal imaging. Both a randomized controlled trial and multiple systematic reviews show evidence of a perinatal survival benefit following fetal intervention but rates of renal morbidity remain very high. Despite 30 years of research, fetal lower urinary tract obstruction remains a difficulty entity to treat. Intervention may lead to survival, but physicians and caregivers must remain alert for the distinct possibility of long-term renal morbidity in survivors.

Vesicoamniotic Shunting Improves Outcomes in a Subset of Prune Belly Syndrome Patients at a Single Tertiary Center

Objective: Review outcomes of Prune Belly Syndrome (PBS) with the hypothesis that contemporary management improves mortality. Methods: A retrospective chart review of inpatient and outpatient PBS patients referred between 2000 and 2018 was conducted to assess outcomes at our institution. Data collected included age at diagnosis, concomitant medical conditions, imaging, operative management, length of follow-up, and renal function. Results: Forty-five PBS patients presented during these 18 years. Prenatal diagnoses were made in 17 (39%); 65% of these patients underwent prenatal intervention. The remaining patients were diagnosed in the infant period (20, 44%) or after 1 year of age (8, 18%). Twelve patients died from cardiopulmonary complications in the neonatal period; the neonatal mortality rate was 27%. The mean follow-up among patients surviving the neonatal period was 84 months. Forty-two patients had at least one renal ultrasound (RUS); of the 30 patients with NICU RUSs, 26 (89%) had hydronephrosis and/or ureterectasis. Of the 39 patients who underwent voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), 28 (62%) demonstrated VUR. Fifty-nine percent had respiratory distress. Nine patients (20%) were oxygen-dependent by completion of follow up. Thirty-eight patients (84%) had other congenital malformations including genitourinary (GU) 67%, gastrointestinal (GI) 52%, and cardiac 48%. Sixteen patients (36%) had chronic kidney disease (CKD) of at least stage 3; three patients (7%) had received renal transplants. Eighty-four percent of patients had at least one surgery (mean 3.4, range 0-6). The most common was orchiopexy (71%). The next most common surgeries were vesicostomy (39%), ureteral reimplants (32%), abdominoplasty (29%), nephrectomy (25%), and appendicovesicostomy (21%). After stratifying patients according to Woodard classification, a trend for 12% improvement in mortality after VAS was noted in the Woodard Classification 1 cohort. Conclusions: PBS patients frequently have multiple congenital anomalies. Pulmonary complications are prevalent in the neonate while CKD (36%) is prevalent during late childhood. The risk of CKD increased significantly with the presence of other congenital anomalies in our cohort. Mortality in childhood is most common in infancy and may be as low as 27%. Contemporary management of PBS, including prenatal interventions, reduced the neonatal mortality rate in a subset of our cohort.

Effectiveness of vesicoamniotic shunt in fetuses with congenital lower urinary tract obstruction: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect on perinatal and postnatal survival of vesicoamniotic shunt (VAS) as treatment for fetal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO).

METHODS

An electronic search of Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, Ovid Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Scopus using relevant search terms was conducted from inception to June 2015 to identify studies comparing outcomes of VAS vs conservative management for treatment of LUTO. Cohort studies and clinical trials were considered eligible. Single-arm studies and studies that did not report survival were excluded. Sample size and language were not criteria for exclusion. Two reviewers extracted independently data in a standardized form, including study characteristics and results. Primary outcomes were perinatal and postnatal survival. Secondary outcome was postnatal renal function. Data on fetal survival were expressed as odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI.

RESULTS

Of the 423 abstracts retrieved, nine studies were eligible for inclusion. These studies included 112 fetuses treated with VAS and 134 that were managed conservatively. There was heterogeneity in study design. Although the data demonstrated a difference in effect estimates between the study arms in terms of perinatal survival (OR, 2.54 (95% CI, 1.14-5.67)), there was no difference in 6-12-month survival (OR, 1.77 (95% CI, 0.25-12.71)) or 2-year survival (OR, 1.81 (95% CI, 0.09-38.03)). In addition, there was no difference in effect on postnatal renal function between fetuses that underwent intervention and those that did not (OR, 2.09 (95% CI, 0.74-5.94)).

CONCLUSIONS

Available data seem to support an advantage for perinatal survival in fetuses treated with VAS compared with conservative management. However, 1-2-year survival and outcome of renal function after VAS procedure remain uncertain. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of fetal intervention for LUTO based on different severity of the disease, due to the very low quality of the studies according to GRADE guidelines. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Factors associated with fetal shunt dislodgement in lower urinary tract obstruction

OBJECTIVE

To identify factors associated with fetal shunt dislodgement in lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO).

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of 42 consecutive fetuses with a diagnosis of LUTO in a tertiary fetal center between April 2013 and November 2015. Possible factors associated with prenatal shunt dislodgment were evaluated in fetuses who underwent shunt placement, including gestational age at diagnosis, gestational age at procedure, presence of 'keyhole sign', initial fetal bladder volume and wall thickness, prenatal ultrasonographic renal characteristics, amniotic fluid volume, presence of ascites prior to shunting, and type of fetal shunt.

RESULTS

Nineteen (46.3%) fetuses underwent shunt placement at a median gestational age of 19 (range: 16.3-31.1) weeks. Shunt dislodgement occurred in 10 (52.6%) patients. A total of 35 procedures were performed; among which 16 (45.7%) were repeat procedures. The only prenatal factor associated with shunt dislodgement was the type of the shunt; Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that the Rocket was associated with increased likelihood of remaining orthotopic (p = 0.04).

CONCLUSION

Fetal shunt dislodgement occurs in approximately half of the patients and appears to be associated with the type of the shunt. Future research is necessary to develop better shunt systems and to investigate different fetal therapeutic approaches. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Current applications of in utero intervention for lower urinary tract obstruction

PURPOSE

Since the early 1980s with the inception of fetal intervention for obstructive uropathy, there have been creative attempts to improve both perinatal and long-term outcomes. Despite advances in technology and an improved understanding of lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) in the fetus, the results for these therapeutic interventions remain guarded and the long-term renal morbidity among survivors remains problematic.

RECENT FINDINGS

Fetal LUTO represents a range of disorders but the most common of these is posterior urethral valves (PUVs). Selection criteria for candidates of possible intervention have improved with our understanding of fetal renal physiology. Serial urinalysis has marginally improved our ability to predict those that may ultimately respond to treatment [1,2], but the potential in the development of biomarkers for renal development or maldevelopment holds greater promise [3]. Advancements in fetal surgery may result in less fetal and maternal morbidity, but limited long-term improvement in outcomes highlights the controversial nature of the various interventions [4-10]. We must counsel families that fetal surgery offers hope but we cannot allow them to hold unrealistic expectations for cure.

SUMMARY

In appropriately selected fetuses, intervention may improve perinatal survival but not without risk to mother and fetus. Long-term renal outcomes remain problematic amongst survivors. In the case of PUV, postnatal primary valve ablation remains the cornerstone of treatment for nephron preservation; however, our ability to mimic these results in the prenatal population remains poor [11]. Disease severity has likely predetermined those that will survive through the perinatal period with or without intervention. Nonetheless, our drive to assess and manage fetal obstructive uropathy perseveres so that we may ultimately relieve obstruction and preserve renal and lung function. We must maintain optimism that continued advances will ultimately improve outcomes, but also be realistic with our current expectations. This paper reviews the status of current in utero interventions and outcomes.

Fetal surgery: principles, indications, and evidence

Since the first human fetal surgery was reported in 1965, several different fetal surgical procedures have been developed and perfected, resulting in significantly improved outcomes for many fetuses. The currently accepted list of fetal conditions for which antenatal surgery is considered include lower urinary tract obstruction, twin-twin transfusion syndrome, myelomeningocele, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, neck masses occluding the trachea, and tumors such as congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation or sacrococcygeal teratoma when associated with developing fetal hydrops. Until recently, it has been difficult to determine the true benefits of several fetal surgeries because outcomes were reported as uncontrolled case series. However, several prospective randomized trials have been attempted and others are ongoing, supporting a more evidence-based approach to antenatal intervention. Problems that have yet to be completely overcome include the inability to identify ideal fetal candidates for antenatal intervention, to determine the optimal timing of intervention, and to prevent preterm birth after fetal surgery. Confronting a fetal abnormality raises unique and complex issues for the family. For this reason, in addition to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist experienced in prenatal diagnosis, a pediatric surgeon, an experienced operating room team including a knowledgeable anesthesiologist, and a neonatologist, the family considering fetal surgery should have access to psychosocial support and a bioethicist.

Outcomes of fetuses with lower urinary tract obstruction treated with vesicoamniotic shunt: a single-institution experience

PURPOSE

The purpose of this manuscript was to examine the outcomes of patients with lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) treated with vesicoamniotic shunt (VAS) to improve the quality of prenatal consultation and therapy.

METHODS

The medical records of all patients diagnosed with LUTO at our center between January 2004 and March 2012 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Of 14 male fetuses with LUTO, all with characteristic ultrasound findings, 11 underwent intervention. One patient received vesicocentesis alone, while 10 had VAS. Two fetuses additionally underwent cystoscopy (one with attempted valve ablation), and two had peritoneoamniotic shunts. Of 16 total VAS, 13 were placed successfully, 8 dislodged (median 7 days), and 1 obstructed (84 days). Two fetuses suffered in utero demise, and two have unknown outcomes. LUTO was confirmed in six of eight live-born fetuses. One patient died in the neonatal period, while seven survived. All six available at follow-up (median 3.7 years), had significant genitourinary morbidity. Five patients had chronic kidney disease, but only one has required dialysis and transplant. Three had respiratory insufficiency, and one required a tracheostomy.

CONCLUSION

Despite significant perinatal and long-term morbidity, VAS offers patients faced with a poor prognosis an improved chance of survival. Our results underscore the need for further research into the diagnosis and treatment of LUTO.

Fetal lower urinary tract obstruction and its management

INTRODUCTION

Prenatal counselling in case of fetal obstructive uropathies still represents a clinical dilemma, despite ultrasound detection of lower urinary tract obstruction has greatly advanced during recent years as well as fetal intervention techniques.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic review of the relevant literature on the topic was performed, with a special focus on the role of antenatal ultrasound, in utero treatment and prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

A clinico-diagnostic flow chart was developed, with the specific aim of aiding health care givers in the clinical management and the parental decision-making process.

Persistent cloaca: a 10-year review of prenatal diagnosis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to review antenatal sonographic findings in children born with persistent cloaca.

METHODS

Infants (n =145) with persistent cloaca followed at a center for colorectal congenital anomalies were identified by a retrospective chart review. Fifty female infants with a persistent cloaca met inclusion criteria and had prenatal records and imaging studies available for review. Sonographic data were retrospectively abstracted from charts.

RESULTS

Anomalies were detected in 27 of 50 cases (54%). A correct antenatal diagnosis of persistent cloaca occurred in 3 of 50 (6%). Common findings misinterpreted on antenatal sonography include urinary tract anomalies, dilated bowel, and a cystic pelvic mass (representing hydrocolpos).

CONCLUSIONS

Antenatal diagnosis of persistent cloaca is difficult. Persistent cloaca should be considered in the differential diagnosis if urinary tract malformations, dilated bowel loops, or cystic pelvic masses are visualized by prenatal diagnosis.

Posterior urethral valves: renal failure and prenatal treatment

Posterior urethral valves occur in 1 : 5000 live births. Despite the high prevalence, the few children that survive do poorly, with over 50% progressing to ESRD in 10 years. The gold standard for post-natal diagnosis is voiding cystourethrography, while pre-natal diagnosis is dependent on routine screening ultrasonography. Despite the ability to identify features of bladder outlet obstruction early in fetal development, there is no consensus on how to incorporate early detection into current screening protocols. There has yet to be a marker that allows prediction of obstruction in the absence of or prior to radiographic evidence of obstruction. With our current screening strategy, the majority of interventions are performed well after irreversible damage has occurred. Improved mortality and long term morbidity from posterior urethral valves and congenital bladder outlet obstruction will likely remain unchanged until it is possible to intervene prior to the onset of irreversible renal damage. New biologic markers and improved instrumentation will allow for more effective diagnosis and intervention at earlier stages of fetal development.

Feasibility of vesicoamniotic shunt insertion in an inanimate model: comparison of fetoscopic and ultrasound-guided techniques

OBJECTIVES

To determine the feasibility of fetoscopic vesicoamniotic shunt insertion (F-VASI) in an inanimate model and to compare F-VASI to ultrasound (US)-guided VASI (US-VASI) with respect to accuracy of shunt placement and overall success rate.

METHODS

An inanimate second-trimester fetus with a replaceable bladder balloon was suspended in a pressurized water tank and localized with US. Fetal position was randomized, the operator was blinded and a 5-Fr Harrison Shunt® decompressed the bladder in both groups. Thirty shunt insertions were performed per group.

RESULTS

Procedure time was longer for F-VASI (15.0 vs. 2.8 min, p < 0.05), although it decreased with practice. F-VASI and US-VASI were similar for adequate depth of insertion (27/30 vs. 27/30, p = 1.0), placement within 1 cm of midline (27/30 vs. 25/30, p = 0.42), bladder puncture (28/30 vs. 28/30, p = 1.0), and overall success rate (27/30 vs. 23/30, p = 0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

F-VASI is feasible in an inanimate model. Overall success rate was similar between the groups, although procedure time was longer for F-VASI. Further study is required to determine whether shunt migration is decreased with F-VASI.

Abnormalities of the fetal bladder

This review aims to outline the management of a fetus in whom a distended bladder or an absent bladder has been identified during prenatal fetal screening. The causes, pre-delivery and immediate post-delivery treatment options are discussed, as well as prognosis.

[Is premature induced labour justified in case of fetal urinary tract dilatation?]

There is a decreasing trend in the number of intrauterine interventions performed due to urinary tract dilatations of the foetus diagnosed ultrasonographically. This is due to the low efficacy of the interventions, the high rate of complications and a better knowledge of the foetal physiology. However, the demand for early corrective surgery is still present. In Hungary pre-term caesarean section is performed in many institutions in order to enable the operation of the neonate, despite the fact that the benefits of this intervention have not been established.

AIM

In order to test the correctness of this practice, the authors conducted a retrospective analysis of the patients of two large case-volume paediatric institutions.

PATIENTS

In a period of 5 years, 329 neonates were followed due to intrauterine diagnosis of urinary tract dilatations (197 at the Department of Urology, Heim Pál Children's Hospital in Budapest, whereas in Miskolc 132), including 13 cases where the urological anomaly was the indication for pre-term induction of labour.

RESULTS

Of the 13 neonates who had been delivered prematurely, none were operated before the postconceptional age of 40 weeks, and 3 subsequently required no surgical intervention. Two neonates developed life-threatening conditions that presumably could have been avoided without the premature caesarean section.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors conclude that there are several arguments against pre-term delivery: 1. Prenatal diagnostics does not always yield as accurate information as the diagnostic procedures performed in infancy; 2. Intrauterine urinary tract dilatation often resolve spontaneously, superseding the need for both pre- and post-natal surgical interventions. 3. Scientific observations have confirmed that there is no difference between the efficacy of postnatal and pre-term interventions. Based on the above-mentioned, authors emphasize that this outdated practice can no longer be accepted, and call for good cooperation between the obstetrician, the paediatric urologist and nephrologist, to coordinate the management of the case.

Management of fetal hydronephrosis

Prenatally detected hydronephrosis has become a common diagnosis for both pediatric nephrologists and urologists. Hydronephrosis is most commonly assessed by the Society for Fetal Urology grading system or anterior-posterior diameter of the renal pelvis in the transverse plane. Some cases of bilateral obstruction, most commonly from posterior urethral valves, can be life-threatening and require close monitoring or, occasionally, fetal intervention. The majority are unilateral and of no threat to the growing fetus. The crux of postnatal management is the separation of the minority of patients whose renal function is at risk from the majority who will suffer no renal consequences. This management involves a regimen of ultrasounds, voiding cystourethrograms, and nuclear renograms for diagnosis and surveillance. Recent literature has been aimed at the timing and necessity of these studies in order to minimize extraneous studies without compromising renal function.

Prune belly syndrome. A focused physical assessment

Prune belly syndrome, a rare congenital anomaly, exists almost exclusively in males and consists of genital and urinary abnormalities with partial or complete absence of abdominal wall musculature. The syndrome, caused by urethral obstruction early in development, is the result of massive bladder distention and urinary ascites, leading to degeneration of the abdominal wall musculature and failure of testicular descent. The impaired elimination of urine from the bladder leads to oligohydramnios, pulmonary hypoplasia, and Potter's facies. The syndrome has a broad spectrum of affected anatomy with different levels of severity. The exact etiology of prune belly syndrome is unknown, although several embryologic theories attempt to explain the anomaly. With advances in prenatal screening techniques, the diagnosis and possible treatment of prune belly syndrome can occur before birth, although controversy exists on the proper management of prune belly syndrome. This article explores the theories behind the pathophysiology and embryology of prune belly syndrome and its multisystemic effects on the newborn infant. Specific attention is paid to presentation, clinical features, head-to-toe physical assessment, family support, and nursing care of infants with prune belly syndrome.

Percutaneous fetal surgery using epidural catheter: preliminary experience acquired from 24 cases

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the following study is to report the experience acquired from 24 percutaneous fetal surgeries for cavity drainage using epidural catheter instead of the commercially available catheter.

METHODS

Twenty-four percutaneous fetal surgeries for cavity drainage were performed, due to the following anomalies: 13 cases of lower urinary tract obstruction, nine cases of pleural effusion, and two cases of pulmonary cystic adenomatoid malformation type I. In order to verify that catheter adequacy, technical and obstetric complications derived from its use were assessed. Technical complications were difficulty in inserting the catheter and/or its functionality; and obstetric complications were the presence of bleeding, amniotic infection, preterm labor or premature rupture of membranes.

RESULTS

The technical complications were the following: difficulty in passing the catheter through epidural needle in one case; one case of catheter drawn back with the needle; two cases of catheter dislodgment; and four cases of non-functionality of the catheter. Among the obstetric complications, there was only one case of preterm labor, and except from one fetus with chromosomal pathology, all the other 23 newborns were alive after 1 week.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of the epidural catheter can be seen as a viable alternative to percutaneous surgeries of fetal cavity shunting, due to its low cost and similar complications to the use of the conventional catheter.

Posterior urethral valve: Outcome of antenatal intervention

INTRODUCTION AND AIM

Antenatal treatment of obstructive uropathy, although widely performed, remains controversial. This study evaluated the long-term outcome of managing patients with posterior urethral valves (PUV), highlighting the effect of antenatal vesicoamniotic shunt placement for patients who underwent fetal surgery.

METHODS

The medical records of 58 patients with PUV were retrospectively reviewed from June 1998 to June 2004. On the basis of prenatal assessment of sonographic findings and serial urinary electrolytes and protein measurements, patients were divided into two groups: group 1 comprised patients who had antenatal vesicoamniotic shunt placement whereas group 2 comprised patients who underwent postnatal surgical correction of PUV. Their outcomes and long-term results were evaluated.

RESULTS

Patients were followed up from 6 months to 6(1/2) years (mean 3.9 years). Group 1 included 12 patients who had vesicoamniotic shunt placement and were confirmed postnatally to have PUV. Four patients out of 12 died (33.3%); three out of the eight living patients had perinatal complications. Of the eight living patients, three (37.5%) underwent valve ablation and five (62.5%) underwent urinary diversion (three vesicostomies and two cutaneous ureterostomies). Renal function returned to normal in only four patients (50%). Radiological abnormalities (hydronephrosis and/or reflux) resolved in three (37.5%) patients, was downgraded in one (12.5%) patient and persisted in four patients (50%). Group 2 included 46 patients who were treated postnatally. Thirty-five patients (76%) underwent primary valve ablation, while 11 (24%) underwent urinary diversion (seven vesicostomies, four cutaneous ureterostomy and one pyelostomy). Renal function returned to normal in all patients who underwent valve ablation, except in three, while renal function returned to normal in only three of 11 patients who underwent urinary diversion. Radiological hydronephrosis and/or reflux resolved in 28 patients (60.9%), was downgraded in six patients (13%) and persisted in 12 patients (26.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

Antenatal vesicoamniotic shunt placement makes no difference to the outcome and long-term results of patients with PUV and debate about its efficacy on renal outcome remains. Primary valve ablation is the keystone of treatment for patients with PUV that might achieve the primary goal of nephron preservation. The lowest creatinine concentration in the first year of life is the most appropriate predictor of future renal function.

Management of neonatal hydronephrosis

Management of neonatal hydronephrosis is a clinical challenge. The natural history of hydronephrosis has shown that most resolve spontaneously; however, there are a significant number that do not. Although hydronephrosis does not always mean obstruction, it becomes the clinician's role to determine when obstruction will eventually lead to renal damage. Work-up of hydronephrosis diagnosed prenatally starts with a postnatal ultrasound. Using the Society of Fetal Urology (SFU) grading of hydronephrosis based on ultrasonography, a management and treatment algorithm can be constructed. Other studies include a voiding cystourethrogram to evaluate for vesicoureteral reflux or in severe cases of bilateral hydronephrosis to evaluate for posterior urethral valves. Diuretic renography is useful in many cases to evaluate the degree of obstruction and determine differential renal function. The goal is to select the patients who would benefit from early surgical intervention. To achieve that goal, aggressive observation is often required.

Long-term outcomes in children treated by prenatal vesicoamniotic shunting for lower urinary tract obstruction

OBJECTIVE

Limited information is available about long-term outcomes in children treated prenatally for lower urinary tract obstruction. Our aim was to evaluate outcomes in children treated in utero with vesicoamniotic shunts.

METHODS

Clinical outcomes in 20 pregnancies with a singleton male fetus, oligo/anhydramnios, and lower urinary tract obstruction were studied using chart review and phone and written clinical questionnaire for parents, pediatricians, and urologists.

RESULTS

Overall 1-year survival was 91%. Two neonatal deaths occurred from pulmonary hypoplasia. Mean gestational age at delivery was 34.6 weeks, mean days from shunting to delivery were 84.4, and mean birth weight was 2,574 g. Prenatal urinary prognosis was good in 13, borderline in 2, and poor in 3 of the survivors. Mean age at follow-up was 5.83 years. Posterior urethral valves were confirmed in 7 males, urethral atresia in 4, and prune belly syndrome in 7. Eight children had acceptable renal function, 4 had mild insufficiency, and 6 required dialysis and eventual renal transplant. Eleven children had normal bladder function with spontaneous voiding, 6 required catheterization, and 1 child still had a vesicostomy. Height and weight were below the 25th percentile in 9 children. Persistent respiratory problems were present in 8, musculoskeletal problems in 9, and frequent urinary tract infections were reported in 9. Health-related quality of life results in our group with lower urinary tract obstruction were similar to those in a healthy child population.

CONCLUSION

Male children who underwent prenatal bladder shunting were neurodevelopmentally normal. Although one third of the surviving babies required dialysis and transplantation, the majority have acceptable renal and bladder function and report satisfactory quality of life.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Successful outcome following prenatal intervention in a female fetus with bladder outlet obstruction

Bladder outlet obstructions are a diverse and heterogeneous group of developmental abnormalities that generally involve obstruction of the proximal urethra in the male fetus. Indications for prenatal intervention are few and are usually restricted to the male fetus because bladder outlet obstruction in female fetuses is usually caused by complex cloacal development anomalies. We report on a female fetus with an enlarged bladder and a dilated proximal urethra (known as typical keyhole sign). A vesicoamniotic shunt was performed despite non-reassuring prognostic factors, but the procedure resulted in a successful outcome. We propose that in selected cases of bladder outlet obstruction, fetal intervention should be considered even when the fetus is female.

Prenatal diagnosis and management of abdominal diseases in pediatric surgery

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate the prenatal courses and management of abdominal surgical diseases.

METHODS

Of the 327 patients registered with our fetal treatment board since March 2002, 83 fetuses referred to the surgical department were enrolled for the current study. The prenatal diagnosis, sequential fetal images, and perinatal courses of these cases were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

Of the 83 cases, abdominal diseases were suspected in 34, lung and thoracic diseases in 25, genitourinary diseases in 12, and other anomalies in 12. Meconium peritonitis (MP), intestinal obstruction, and abdominal wall defects accounted for approximately 65% of the abdominal diseases. Five patients with prenatally diagnosed lung diseases underwent fetal surgical intervention, and 17 of the 22 liveborn patients survived. In contrast, none of the patients with prenatally diagnosed abdominal anomalies underwent fetal surgical intervention, yet, 23 of the 24 liveborn patients survived. However, preterm labor and hydrops were seen frequently in the patients with giant cystic MP, suggesting a fetal critical condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the clinical outcome of abdominal diseases seemed favorable with postnatal treatment, the current results suggested the occurrence of hidden mortality in utero and the potential need for fetal intervention for some abdominal conditions, such as MP.

Prenatal puncture of a unilateral hydronephrosis leading to fetal urinoma and postnatal nephrectomy

Fetal pelvicaliceal dilatation due to ureteropelvic junction obstruction is the most common cause of antenatal hydronephrosis; it rarely leads to a spontaneous rupture resulting in urinoma formation. Antenatal intervention has been recommended only in those cases of large urinomas that seem to interfere with the function of other organ systems (eg, pulmonary hypoplasia secondary to diaphragmatic elevation). We report the case of a fetal intervention (transuterine puncture) in a unilateral massive hydronephrosis leading to a perirenal urinoma and the preterm birth of a female infant. Postnatally, mechanical ventilation and oxygen were required, as was forced percutaneous urinoma drainage. Evaluation revealed a fistula formation between the perirenal space and the kidney's collecting system, possibly due to the fetal intervention. Unfortunately the kidney function was very poor, and surgery to remove the impaired kidney and the urinoma was performed. We discuss the possible effects of fetal intervention in cases of obstructive uropathy and the postnatal risks associated with it.

Prenatal intervention for urinary obstruction and myelomeningocele

Widespread use of ultrasonography has resulted in an increase in the recognition of fetal hydronephrosis. The enthusiasm that accompanied early interventions has been tempered by the experience and results obtained over the past 2 decades. The goal has remained the same: to identify patients with serious prenatal obstruction and to identify those which may benefit from intervention. Myelomeningocele remains a devastating congenital anomaly. Fetal and experimental studies suggested that patients with myelomeningocele could benefit from prenatal intervention. Advances in technology and perinatal management have made intervention for more complex malformations such as myelomeningocele possible. This article will review current knowledge and will detail rational management for the management of prenatal hydronephrosis. The current state of antenatal myelomeningocele repair and the urologic implications will be described as well.

Distal urinary obstruction

Despite the sound experimental basis and initial promise of early animal models, the results of antenatal intervention have been disappointing, with high rates of misdiagnosis of urethral valves, complications from vesicoamniotic shunting, perinatal mortality, and long-term renal impairment and bladder dysfunction in survivors. The recent development of a cystoscopic approach might obviate some of these problems, but to date the procedure been limited by technical difficulty in negotiating the urethrovesical angle. Overcoming these difficulties through equipment modifications might allow definitive testing of whether or not alleviating distal urinary obstruction in utero is beneficial.

Prenatal ultrasound guided percutaneous shunts for obstructive uropathy and thoracic disease

The authors reviewed the status of closed ultrasound-guided fetal therapy using a pigtail shunt to create vesicoamniotic or thoracoamniotic decompression of the fluid-filled space. This review includes published and textbook reports of in utero therapy for bladder obstruction, pleural effusion, and macrocystic adenomatoid malformation from 1985 through 2002. For fetuses affected by lower urinary tract obstruction, the key component is identifying those fetuses that have retained renal function and are most likely to benefit from in utero shunting. This good prognosis group has been shown to have improved survival rate and a lower incidence of renal failure. Complications of fetal loss are estimated at 5% owing to the shunt procedure, and the risk of shunt displacement varies from 30% to 50%. Hydrops secondary to primary PE has been shown to be associated with low fetal and neonatal survival at 21% to 23%. Treatment by thoracoamniotic shunting increases survival rate to 75%. The fetus with a macrocystic CCAM and secondary hydrops should be considered a candidate for thoracoamniotic shunt to decrease CCAM volume, reverse hydrops, and improve survival rate. Thoracoamniotic shunt and thoracocentesis pregnancy loss risks for pleural effusion (PE) and macrocystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung (CCAM) are 5% and 0.5% to 1.0%, respectively.

Fetal renal impairment

Renal function in utero deals chiefly with urine production rather than the excretion of metabolites, which are cleared by the placenta. Fetal renal impairment (FRI) in bilateral renal disease thus presents as oligohydramnios or anhydramnios; this can lead to lung hypoplasia and early neonatal death. As in the adult, FRI can be divided into prerenal, renal and postrenal causes. Causes of prerenal FRI include intrauterine growth restriction, unbalanced intertwin transfusion in monochorionic twins and maternal drug ingestion. Bilateral renal agenesis, multicystic dysplasia and both the autosomal dominant and recessive forms of polycystic kidney disease are examples of renal causes, whereas postrenal etiologies are usually caused by lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO). When both kidneys are affected and there is severe mid-trimester oligohydramnios, the prognosis is poor. Although animal studies have shown that prolonged LUTO leads to lung hypoplasia and renal damage, and that decompression of the fetal kidney in early pregnancy restores fetal pulmonary and renal function, the value of fetal therapy such as vesico-amniotic shunting remains controversial, with a high procedure-related complication rate and a high incidence of end-stage renal failure in childhood. Fetal cystoscopic treatment of posterior urethral valves in utero may obviate some of these difficulties but remains an investigational procedure.

Fetal therapy

The advances in fetal therapy including endoscopic approaches and the advent of safer anesthetic techniques has led to the intrauterine management of potentially lethal diseases or diseases associated with high morbidity. This review will elicit certain newer techniques for fetal therapy including their application and complications.

Survival in second trimester oligohydramnios secondary to bilateral pelviureteral junction obstruction

The extent and onset of obstruction in hydronephrosis determine the varying degrees of renal impairment. Bilateral hydronephrosis, especially in combination with oligohydramnios, is considered a negative predictor for pregnancy outcome. We describe a case of bilateral pelviureteral junction obstruction causing severe oligohydramnios between 25 and 29 weeks of gestation. The prenatal and postnatal findings and treatment are demonstrated. In the presence of bilateral renal impairment and oligohydramnios, our patient had an unfavorable prognosis. The respiratory and renal function, however, were better than expected. We show how urinary tract reconstruction and neonatal intensive therapy can result in an acceptable outcome.

Antenatal hydronephrosis: evaluation and outcome

We present a comprehensive and current review of the etiology, evaluation, treatment, and outcome of antenatal hydronephrosis. When a diagnosis of antenatal hydronephrosis is made, many questions regarding pregnancy, prenatal care, intervention, and what may be expected after birth are raised. Debate and controversy exist on the diagnosis and subsequent evaluation and management of the child with antenatal hydronephrosis. A review of the literature and our own experience with antenatal hydronephrosis are presented in order to guide the physician who is caring for mother and child.