BILATERAL EXTRAVESICAL URETERAL REIMPLANTATION IN TOILET TRAINED CHILDREN: IS 1-DAY HOSPITALIZATION WITHOUT URINARY RETENTION POSSIBLE?

Extravesical vs. intravesical ureteric reimplantation for primary vesicoureteral reflux: A systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study aims to compare the outcomes of extravesical (EVUR) and intravesical (IVUR) ureteric reimplantation for primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) via systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

Literature review from Medline, Embase, and Cochrane since inception to March 2022 was performed. Meta-analysis was conducted on eligible randomized controlled trials (RCT) and observational cohort studies (OCS) comparing outcomes between EVUR and IVUR.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included, comprising 577 patients (778 ureters) operated by EVUR and 395 patients (635 ureters) by IVUR. Pre-operative VUR grade, postoperative VUR persistence and hydronephrosis was not statistically significant. EVUR had shorter operative time [mean differences (MD) -22.91 min; 95% confidence interval (CI), -44.53 to -1.30, P = 0.04] and hospital stay (MD -2.09 days; 95% CI, -2.82 to -1.36, P < 0.00001) compared to IVUR. Bilateral EVUR had higher risk of postoperative acute urinary retention (ARU) (8.1%) compared to bilateral IVUR (1.7%) (OR = 4.40; 95% CI, 1.33-14.58, P = 0.02). No patient undergoing unilateral EVUR or IVUR experienced ARU.

CONCLUSION

Both EVUR and IVUR are equally effective in correcting primary VUR. Operative time and hospital stay are shorter after EVUR compared to IVUR. However, bilateral EVUR is associated with higher risk of postoperative ARU.

Vesicoureteral antireflux surgery with Lich-Gregoir technique without vesical drainage: Long-term results

OBJECTIVE

To describe our long-term experience with patients with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) who underwent conventional surgery without postoperative bladder drainage.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective review of 45 patients surgically treated by extravesical Lich-Gregoir's ureterovesical reimplantation without postoperative bladder drainage between 2010 and 2013.

RESULTS

37 women (82.2%) and 8 men (17.8%). 28 patients with unilateral reflux, and 17 patients with bilateral reflux with a total of 62 operated kidneys. The mean age at surgery was 6 years (2 to 11 years). The main cause of surgical indication was the persistence of reflux in patients older than 6 years (73.3%); with grade III VUR (75.6%) being the most frequent. The mean surgical time was 44minutes (35-70) for unilateral reimplantation, and 70minutes (53-98) for bilateral ones. All patients presented spontaneous urination in the immediate postoperative period, without pain, no hematuria, full incontinence, and without a bladder balloon. None required bladder catheter placement, and hospital discharge was indicated between 7 and 36hours postoperatively (mean 11h). All continued with spontaneous micturitions, without postvoid residual or voiding dysfunction during the 5-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The thorough selection of the patients, the detailed surgical gestures, the bladder emptying without instrumentation of the urethra, together with a correct use of analgesics and early ambulation allowed excellent outcomes obtained in these patients managed with a short hospital stay and without bladder drainage, also demonstrating the safety of the procedure at 5 years of follow-up.

Extravesical Ureteral Reimplantation Following Lich-Gregoir Technique for the Correction of Vesico-Ureteral Reflux Retrospective Comparative Study Open vs. Laparoscopy

Introduction: The aim is to compare the outcome of open versus laparoscopic Lich-Gregoir technique in patients with vesicoureteral reflux. We report a retrospective multicenter comparative study between open and laparoscopic extra-vesical ureteral reimplantation (EVUR) following Lich-Gregoir (LG) technique for the correction of Vesico-Ureteral Reflux (VUR). Materials and Methods: Between January 2007 and December 2015, 96 patients with VUR (69 females and 27 males) and deterioration of the renal function, underwent EVUR following LG technique. Fifty patients (16 males and 34 females) were operated by open surgery (group A). The mean age was 4.22 years-old, (14-147 months). Laparoscopic approach (group B) was performed in 46 patients (11 males and 35 females). The mean age was 4.19 years-old (15-110 months). We compared the results in relation to degree of VUR, operative time, hospital stay, post-operative pain medications, recovery time, complications, successful rate, recurrence, and follow-up. Statistical analysis was done used Chi square test for categorical variables and the Student t-test for continuous variables. P < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: In both groups no correlation was identified between age or weight and operative time, length of stay or total analgesia used. The mean operative time for group A was 63.2 and 125.4 min for unilateral and bilateral VUR, respectively, and for the group B was 127.90 and 184.5 min, respectively. There was no conversion in the laparoscopic group. Perioperative mucosal perforation of the bladder occurred in 6 patients of group A and 4 patients of group B and was immediately repaired. One patient had to be reoperated for leakage in group B. The mean duration of Morphine, IV and PO analgesia was shorter in group B. The mean hospital stay was 5.46 days for group A and 1.54 days for Group B. The success rate was 98% in group A and 97, 8% in group B. The mean follow-up was 3.67 years for the open and 1.54 years for the laparoscopic group. Transitory voiding dysfunction occurred in bilateral EVUR in one case in each group. Conclusion: Laparoscopic or Open approach for the correction of VUR following Lich-Gregoir technique is effective in unilateral and bilateral VUR with similar results. Laparoscopic approach reduces significantly (p < 0.05 in each item) post-operative pain medication, hospital stay, and allows for a faster return to normal activity.

Contemporary Management of Vesicoureteral Reflux

CONTEXT

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) remains the most interesting topic of pediatric urology due to the dynamic nature of recent controversial publications. Starting from the need for a diagnosis to the necessity and effectiveness of treatment in preventing scars, VUR remains in the mist. Although recent strong evidence helped as fog lights in this blurriness, more data are required for achieving crystal clearance. This article aims to summarize and discuss the current state of the evidence regarding VUR management.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a comprehensive synthesis of the main evidence in the literature on the current and contemporary management of VUR in children; to discuss conservative management with continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP), especially its effectiveness and safety; and to review the current evidence regarding contemporary surgical techniques.

EVIDENCE ACQUISITION

We conducted a nonsystematic review of the literature using the recent guidelines and PubMed database regarding surveillance, CAP, endoscopic, open, laparoscopic, and robot-assisted ureteral surgical treatment.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Despite the striking results of previous studies revealing the ineffectiveness of CAP, more recent studies and their two fresh meta-analyses revealed a positive role for CAP in the contemporary management of VUR. One of the most interesting findings is the redundant rising of endoscopic correction and its final settlement to real indicated cases. Patient individualization in the contemporary management of VUR seems to be the keyword. The evidence in the literature showed a safe and effective use of laparoscopic and robot-assisted laparoscopic reimplantations.

CONCLUSIONS

The goal of VUR treatment is to prevent the occurrence of febrile urinary tract infections and formation of scars in the renal parenchyma. The approach should be risk adapted and individualized according to current knowledge. Individual risk is influenced by the presentation age, sex, history of pyelonephritis and renal damage, grade of reflux, bladder bowel dysfunction, and circumcision status.

PATIENT SUMMARY

Vesicoureteral reflux is a nonphysiological reflux of urine from the bladder through the ureters to the kidney. Treatment depends on the presentation of the vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Therapeutic options range from watchful waiting to open surgery. This article aims to summarize and discuss the current state of the evidence regarding VUR management.

Prolonged urinary retention can and does occur after any type of ureteral reimplantantion

OBJECTIVE

Transient urinary retention has been recognized as a complication of bilateral ureteroneocystostomy (UNC), when performed extravesically. The objective of this study was to review a collective surgeons' experiences of unilateral extra- and unilateral and/or bilateral intra-vesical ureteral reimplanation, where urinary retention greater than 6 weeks, or what we have termed, "prolonged urinary retention" (PUR), occurred.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed charts to identify PUR after any open or robotic reimplant, other than bilateral extravesical, between 1998 and 2015 as reported by five surgeons.

RESULTS

During the review period, ten cases were documented where PUR was encountered. Bilateral Cohen reimplants (5), unilateral extravesical open reimplant with ureteral tapering (3), unilateral Cohen reimplant (1) and unilateral extravesical robotic reimplant with tapering (1) were associated with PUR. Younger males predominated (70%). The mean age at operation of the patients was 3.1 years. Eventually 7/10 patients were able to void normally, with periods ranging from 6 weeks to 8 years. The remaining three patients are still unable to void more than 5 years after UNC. A majority of the samples (6/10) were suspected to have bowel and bladder dysfunction (BBD), but neurologically all were normal.

CONCLUSION

PUR can occur as a potential complication following any type of UNC and is associated with the risk of significant morbidity, including permanent urinary retention. Patients and caregivers should be counseled accordingly.

Extravesical (modified Gregoir Lich) versus intravesical (Cohen's) ureteric reimplantation for vesicoureteral reflux in children: A single center experience

INTRODUCTION

There are multiple techniques for surgical correction of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). We compared the outcomes of extravesical versus Cohen's reimplantation for VUR in children.

METHODS

Records of all children (n = 118) who underwent reimplantation for VUR between 2003 and 2014 were analyzed (male: female = 43:75). Children with secondary VUR, duplication anomalies, and ectopic ureter were excluded from our study. Extravesical reimplantation (EVR) was performed bilateral in 32 children (Group 1a) and unilateral in 19 (Group 1b), while bilateral Cohen's reimplantation was performed in 67 (Group 2). Parameters compared were length of the surgical procedure, average duration of stay in the hospital, postoperative bladder spasms, significant hematuria >72 h, and long-term complications.

RESULTS

The mean age at operation was 15 months in Group 1, and 36 months in Group 2. The mean duration of surgery was significantly less (P = 0.0001) in Group 1a (n = 32; mean 104 min; standard deviation [SD] 18 min) compared to Group 2 (n = 67; mean 128 min; SD 15 min). The mean (SD) postoperative stay was significantly lower (P = 0.0001) at 4.5 (1.5) days in Group 1a compared to 6.5 (0.5) days in Group 2. Postoperative bladder spasms were significantly lower (P = 0.03) at 10/32 in Group 1a compared to 37/67 in Group 2. All patients responded well with anticholinergics. Postoperative hematuria and bladder spasms were significantly lower (P = 0.03) in Group 1a compared to Group 2. There was no significant difference in persistent VUR between Group 1 and Group 2. At 1 year follow, none of them had any evidence of ureteral obstruction.

CONCLUSIONS

EVR has lower operative time, less postoperative discomfort and shorter hospital stay compared to Cohen's reimplantation. Both techniques are equally effective in treating reflux.

Robot-assisted Laparoscopic Extravesical Ureteral Reimplantation: Technique Modifications Contribute to Optimized Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Robot-assisted laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation (RALUR-EV) is being adopted at large pediatric urology centers in the United States, but currently there is not consensus on surgical technique to facilitate the best possible outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To describe technique modifications that may lead to improved radiographic vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) resolution.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Between December 2008 and February 2015, a single surgeon performed RALUR-EV at an academic medical center. Only children with persistent grade 3-5 VUR at age 5 yr on voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), those who had breakthrough urinary tract infections, or those with renal scarring were selected to undergo surgical correction of VUR with RALUR-EV. Children undergoing RALUR-EV for obstructive megaureter or ureterovesical junction obstruction were excluded. Fifty-eight patients (83 ureters) fit the inclusion criteria.

SURGICAL PROCEDURE

We highlighted adjustments to our technique, called LUAA to represent length of detrusor tunnel (L), use of a U stitch (U), placement of permanent ureteral alignment suture (A), and inclusion of ureteral adventitia (A) in detrusorraphy.

OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS AND STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

The primary end point was resolution of VUR on postoperative VCUG.

RESULTS AND LIMITATIONS

Because technique modifications were made at two distinct time points, we generated three patient groups for comparison. We observed complete resolution of VUR in 82% of ureters, including 8 of 12 ureters (67%), 8 of 11 ureters (73%), and 52 of 60 ureters (87%) for technique modification cohorts 1, 2, and 3, respectively. There were no ureteral complications at median follow-up of 30 mo. Retrospective design and possible confounding from the learning curve limit this study.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the standardized LUAA technique, we demonstrated an improvement in outcomes. Given the wide range of published resolution rates following RALUR-EV, there is a need for standardization of technique to facilitate best possible outcomes. We propose the LUAA technique as a new standard for RALUR-EV to achieve this goal.

PATIENT SUMMARY

We examined the safety and efficacy of a minimally invasive surgery in children. We identified several critical adjustments to surgical technique that improve rates of successful outcome.

Laparoscopic extravesical detrusorraphy, a minimally invasive treatment option for vesicoureteral reflux: a single centre experience

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopy in pediatric patients offers more benefits than was earlier presumed and these widely reported benefits significantly outweigh any concerns regarding the technical difficulties. Laparoscopic correction of vesicoureteral reflux aims to duplicate the excellent results of open surgery while at the same time reducing perioperative morbidity and analgesic requirements, improving cosmesis and shortening hospital stay.

OBJECTIVE

To share our experience of laparoscopic extravesical detrusorraphy, highlight our technical modification of intraoperative minimal "atraumatic" ureteric handling of the ureter, which we hypothesize may decrease ureteral complications, and report our results.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective chart review of 76 toilet-trained children (98 refluxing units), in the age group of 3-16 years, with Grade I-IV reflux, who underwent laparoscopic detrusorraphy from June 2006 to January 2014. A ureteric catheter is inserted into the refluxing ureter and is tied to the Foleys to drain into a common bag. A three port technique is used. During ureteral dissection, a vascular sling in the form of a Rumel loop is used for atraumatic handling of the ureter. A detrusor tunnel is created with hook electrocautery. A stay suture is later passed through the abdominal wall and slings around the dissected ureter, which helps in holding the ureter approximated against the mucosal trough during detrusorraphy. Detrusor fibers are approximated with 5-0 Vicryl. No drain is placed and the Foley and ureteric catheter(s) are removed after 24 h. Intravenous ketorolac is given every 6 h for the first 24 h. Oral paracetamol is used for analgesia after the first 24 h. Adequate bladder emptying is ensured by assessment of post void residual urine before discharge. Renal USG alone is performed 2 weeks post operatively and repeated after 3 months along with a VCUG (voiding cystourethrography). Success was defined as absence of reflux in the follow-up VCUG done at 3 months.

RESULTS

Mean operative time was 102 ± 26.5 min for unilateral detrusorraphy and 165 ± 18 min for bilateral extravesical detrusorraphy. The mean duration of hospital stay was 1.5 ± 1.7 days. There was one case of urinary retention that was managed with temporary recatheterization. There were no cases of ureteral ischemia, obstruction, hematuria or bladder spasms. Surgery was successful in 97.9% of the refluxing units (96/98). In two patients with grade IV reflux, there was downgrading to grade II on VCUG done at 3 months' follow-up. The reflux resolved at 8 and 14 months' follow-up, respectively.

DISCUSSION

Our technique of atraumatic handling of the ureter, initially with the help of a vascular sling and later with the help of a stay suture passed percutaneously through the abdominal wall, resulted in no ureteric injuries. The postoperative morbidity of this procedure is low because the bladder is not opened, the ureter is not transected, no new UVJ is created and there is no need for placement of a drain. The risk of postoperative bowel adhesions is low as the ureter is dissected out through a narrow peritoneal window, which is again extraperitonealized at the end of the procedure (see figure). The postoperative complications of gross hematuria and bladder spasms, which may be especially encountered in patients undergoing laparoscopic Cohen's, were not seen in our case series.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic extravesical detrusorraphy provides a minimally invasive treatment option for treatment of unilateral/bilateral grade I-IV vesicoureteral reflux. The postoperative morbidity is low and the success rate is favorable. Our technical modification of a "vascular sling" around the ureter facilitates atraumatic ureteric handling, which may reduce distal ureteral complications like ureteral ischemia and obstruction.

Ureteroneocystostomy in primary vesicoureteral reflux: critical retrospective analysis of factors affecting the postoperative urinary tract infection rates

INTRODUCTION

To determine the parameters affecting the outcome of ureteroneocystostomy (UNC) procedure for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data of 398 patients who underwent UNC procedure from 2001 to 2012 were analyzed retrospectively. Different UNC techniques were used according to laterality of reflux and ureteral orifice configuration. Effects of several parameters on outcome were examined. Disappearance of reflux on control VCUG or absence of any kind of UTI/symptoms in patients without control VCUG was considered as clinical improvement.

RESULTS

Mean age at operation was 59.2 ± 39.8 months and follow-up was 25.6 ± 23.3 months. Grade of VUR was 1-2, 3 and 4-5 in 17, 79, 302 patients, respectively. Male to female ratio was 163/235. UNC was performed bilaterally in 235 patients and intravesical approach was used in 373 patients. The frequency of voiding dysfunction, scar on preoperative DMSA, breakthrough infection and previous surgery was 28.4%, 70.7%, 49.3% and 22.4%, respectively. Twelve patients (8.9%) with postoperative contralateral reflux were excluded from the analysis. Overall clinical improvement rate for UNC was 92%. Gender, age at diagnosis and operation, laterality and grade of reflux, mode of presentation, breakthrough infections (BTI) under antibiotic prophylaxis, presence of voiding dysfunction and renal scar, and operation technique did not affect the surgical outcome. However, the clinical improvement rate was lower in patients with a history of previous endoscopic intervention (83.9% vs. 94%). Postoperative UTI rate was 27.2% and factors affecting the occurrence of postoperative UTI were previous failed endoscopic injection on univariate analysis and gender, preoperative BTI, postoperative VUR state, voiding dysfunction on multivariate analysis. Surgery related complication rate was 2% (8/398). These were all low grade complications (blood transfusion in 1, hematoma under incision in 3 and prolonged hospitalization secondary to UTI in 4 patients). In long term, 12 patients are under nephrologic follow-up because of hypertension in 5, increased serum creatinine in 5, proteinuria in 1 and hematuria in 1 patient and all these patients had preoperative scarred kidneys.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite its invasive nature, UNC has a very high success rate with a negligible percent of complications. In our cohort, the only factor that negatively affected the clinical improvement rate was the history of previous antireflux interventions where the predictive factors for postoperative UTI were previous failed endoscopic injection, female gender, preoperative BTI, persistent VUR and voiding dysfunction.

The retroperitoneal, inguinal approach to distal part of the ureter

Introduction

The inguinal approach to the distal part of the ureter allows the surgeon to perform various types of procedures and is considered to be one of the minimally invasive techniques in pediatric surgery. We aim to describe our initial experience with the surgery of the distal ureter performed through an inguinal mini–incision.

Material and methods

Between March 2012 and June 2013, 8 patients were treated using a minimally invasive inguinal technique. The indications for surgical correction were single system primary obstructive megaureter, obstructive megaureter of the upper pole in a duplex kidney and distal ureteral stones. In all patients with single system obstructive megaureter and significant hydronephrosis, ureterocutaneostomy was performed. In one patient with duplex system primary obstructive megaureter and significant hydronephrosis of the upper pole, ureteroureterostomy of the dilated ureter to the normal caliber ureter in the distal part was performed. In the second patient with duplex system primary obstructive megaureter and reduced marker excretion of the upper pole in renal scintigraphy, ureterocutaneostomy was performed. In both cases of distal ureteral stones, deposits were removed by a simple incision.

Results

We did not observe any perioperative or postoperative complications. The imaging studies have shown that ureteral dilatation decreased in all but one child in whom the upper pole and the ureter were resected due to lack of function.

Conclusions

The inguinal approach allows for the adequate visualization of the distal ureter, creating the conditions for implementation of the various procedures, reduces the risk of retrovesical plexus injury and minimizes visible scars.

Evaluation of a process-of-care model for open intravesical ureteral reimplantation in children from a contemporary health care perspective

INTRODUCTION

Surgical management of patients with vesicoureteral reflux consists of both open and minimally invasive approaches. Open approaches are associated with postoperative hospitalization and stays of 2 to 3 days, dependent on the type of procedure; alternately, when endoscopic correction is performed, it is a same-day procedure. Changes in health care policy emphasize reduction in cost while maintaining and improving quality of care. We sought to evaluate the impact of a "1-night cost-saving process-of-care" model for open surgical correction of vesicoureteral reflux in children on quality of care, which was defined as a return to the emergency room (ER)/office or readmission to the hospital within 2 days of discharge.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An institutional review board-approved retrospective chart review of all open ureteral reimplantations for uncomplicated vesicoureteral reflux from January 2009 through January 2013 was performed. Children who underwent ureteral stent placement and those who did not have a caudal anesthetic were excluded from the study. Length of postoperative stay, ER records, hospitalizations, and office records were reviewed to assess for presentation to the ER/office or readmission to the hospital within 2 days of discharge.

RESULTS

During the 4-year study period, 92 children (23 males, 69 females) underwent open ureteral reimplantation-there were 83 (89.1%) discharges on the first postoperative day; 9 (9.8%) on the second postoperative day; and 1 (1.1%) on the third postoperative day. One patient presented to the ER within 2 days of discharge, and 4 patients presented to the ER/office or were readmitted > 2 days after discharge.

CONCLUSION

Use of a caudal anesthetic, earlier catheter removal, a knowledgeable nursing team, and parental education allowed us to decrease the length of stay to 1 night in 82 of 92 patients (89.1%). These procedural changes allowed for a decrease in hospital stay comparable with and potentially shorter than robotic-assisted laparoscopic approaches. Additionally, these changes did not seem to increase the risk of early (≤ 2 days of discharge) presentation to the ER/office or readmission.

A modified technique for ureteral reimplantation: intravesical detrusorrhaphy

PURPOSE

To describe the surgical procedure of intravesical detrusorrhaphy, a modified technique of ureteral reimplantation, and report our initial experience.

METHODS

From October 2007 to March 2012, 55 children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and 13 children with obstructive megaureter (OM) underwent intravesical detrusorrhaphy. All surgical procedures were performed via an open intravesical approach. The ureter was mobilized, and the bladder mucosa was separated from the detrusor in a cephalad direction. The separated detrusor was incised vertically and repaired underneath the mobilized ureter to create the submucosal tunnel. The ureteral orifice was anastomosed to its orthotopic position.

RESULTS

Of 31 patients treated with bilateral intravesical detrusorrhaphy, no patient had postoperative urinary retention. Follow-up voiding cystourethrography was performed in 45 patients with 72 reimplanted ureters. VUR was resolved in 41 patients (91.1%) with 68 ureters (94.4%). Among 13 patients with 14 ureters treated for OM, hydroureteronephorosis improved in 11 patients (84.6%) with 12 ureters (85.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

Intravesical detrusorrhaphy is modified technique of ureteral reimplantation, which recreates the neo-ureteric orifice in the orthotopic position and does not produce postoperative urinary retention in bilateral cases. Intravesical detrusorrhaphy is safe and effective in treating patients with VUR or OM.

[Therapeutic options for primary vesicoureteral reflux: endoscopic vs open surgical approach]

Therapy of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) has steadily changed during the last decade. Open surgical procedures, e.g. extravesical reflux repair with the Lich-Gregoir technique or ureterocystoneostomy with the psoas hitch technique, reference standards with excellent success rates, are less frequently used. Since its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) endoscopic reflux therapy with Deflux® has gained more and more popularity. However, the usage of so-called bulking agents, e.g. Deflux®, still remains controversial in dilating reflux, while its application for low-grade VUR is increasingly being accepted. Despite higher recurrence rates in all grades of VUR, the use of the "minimally invasive injection" is increasing. The question has to be answered which therapy - if necessary - benefits the patient most. Which role has the subureteral injection gained and are open surgical procedures for VUR therapy "out"?

The inguinal approach to extravesical ureteral reimplantation is safe, effective, and efficient

INTRODUCTION

Minimally invasive surgery implies a percutaneous or endoscopic approach rather than an incision, regardless of size. However, open approaches to various procedures using a mini-incision should assume the same appellation. We report our experience with extravesical ureteral reimplant (EVR) performed through an inguinal mini-incision.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patient characteristics of age, gender, and reflux grade were obtained, and outcomes of recurrent urinary tract infection, time of surgery, time of hospitalization and radiographic resolution were assessed. The technique involved a 2 cm incision made in the lowest inguinal skin crease, standard hernia exposure, opening of the floor of the inguinal canal to isolate the ureter, detrussorhaphy.

RESULTS

30 girls and 15 boys with a mean age of 64 months (range 20-180), and mean followup of 18 months (range 3-36) underwent unilateral inguinal mini-incision EVR. Reflux grades represented were 7, 13, 18, 5, and 2 for Grades I through V respectively. Common sheath reimplantations were performed in twelve duplicated systems, and tapering performed in three patients. The average time of surgery was 75 min. All but 2 patients were discharged within 24 h; postoperative imaging was normal in all cases. Three patients had febrile UTIs following discontinuation of prophylactic antibiotics.

CONCLUSION

The inguinal approach to EVR is safe, effective, efficient, and well-tolerated. Through several maneuvers learned as the experience with EVR grew, we present a realizable approach to minimally invasive ureteral reimplantation with application in most pediatric urologic practice.

Retrograde ureteral access after cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation: A straightforward technique

PURPOSE

Retrograde ureteral access after cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation can be challenging. We present our experience with percutaneous retrograde ureteral catheterization, status post cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We evaluated all patients who underwent attempted percutaneous retrograde ureteral catheterization after cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation. All clinical data, radiographic images and operative reports were reviewed. Ureteral access was obtained by percutaneously entering the bladder with an intravenous needle/catheter under cystoscopic guidance. The needle was then removed leaving the catheter in place. The ureteral orifice was then accessed through the intravenous catheter by a ureteral access wire and/or ureteral catheter under cystoscopic guidance.

RESULTS

From 1978 to 2008, 13 patients (11 boys and 2 girls) with a history of cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation underwent percutaneous retrograde ureteral catheterization. The procedure was unilateral in 12 patients and bilateral in one. Indications for the procedure included: retrograde pyelography and double-J stent insertion for ureteropelvic junction or ureterovesical junction obstruction (10); removal of migrated stent (2); and treatment of a ureteral stone (1). The procedure was performed successfully in all patients and without complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous retrograde ureteral catheterization is a safe, straightforward, and effective modality for obtaining retrograde ureteral access in children, status post cross-trigonal ureteral reimplantation.

Laparoscopic extravesical transperitoneal approach following the lich-gregoir procedure in refluxing duplicated collecting systems: initial experience

INTRODUCTION

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) represents one of the most significant risk factors for acute pyelonephritis in children. Nephropathy with renal scarring is still the most concerning issue in VUR. Surgical correction to eliminate VUR is an important part of its management and this need is increasing for duplicated collecting systems (DCS). Laparoscopy may have a place in the treatment of VUR. We report our initial experience in the treatment of refluxing DCS by laparoscopic extravesical transperitoneal approach (LETA) following Lich-Gregoir technique. The aim of this study was to describe the evolution and evaluate the results and benefits of this technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between August 2007 and January 2010, 60 renal units in 43 children with VUR and deterioration of renal function on isotope renography were treated with LETA following the Lich-Gregoir procedure. Twelve patients had refluxing DCS in a lower polar system; three of them had bilateral VUR. Three cases of refluxing DCS were associated to obstruction. Two of them presented an ectopic ureterocele with adequate split renal function and another had an ectopic ureterocele with complete deterioration of upper polar renal function. Their mean age was 36 months (range: 15-80 months).

RESULTS

The mean surgical time was 90 minutes (38-140 minutes) in unilateral and 144 minutes (120-200 minutes) in bilateral VUR including cystoscopy. All procedures were successfully completed laparoscopically and the reflux was corrected in all patients. One-stage laparoscopic heminephroureterectomy with excision of ureterocele and ureteric reimplantation was done in 1 case, and ureterocele excision and ureteric reimplantation by LETA were done in 2 cases. The mean hospital stay was 27 hours. A cystogram was performed systematically in all patients at 45 days postoperatively; none of them presented recurrence of VUR. The follow-up period was 11 months (range: 2-24 months), without recurrence of VUR.

CONCLUSION

LETA following the Lich-Gregoir procedure in refluxing DCS is a safe and effective approach even in unilateral, bilateral simultaneous, and split renal function in duplicated systems. When refluxing DCS is associated with obstruction and total deterioration of upper polar function, heminephroureterectomy with excision of ureterocele and ureteric reimplantation can be safely and effectively performed in a single-stage laparoscopic procedure, which minimizes the hazards of traditional open surgical reconstruction. A shorter hospital stay, decreased postoperative discomfort, reduced recovery period, and a low morbidity to resolve VUR in DCS are the benefits of this technique, with success rates similar to the open technique.

Laparoscopic extravesical transperitoneal approach following the Lich-Gregoir technique in the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux in children

INTRODUCTION

Laparoscopy may have a place in the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). We report our initial experience in the treatment of VUR by laparoscopic extravesical transperitoneal approach (LETA) following the Lich-Gregoir technique to describe the evolution and to evaluate the results and benefits of this technique for these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between August 2007 and May 2009, 43 renal units in 30 children (23 female and 7 male) with VUR and deterioration of renal function on isotope renography (17 unilateral and 13 bilateral) were treated with LETA. The mean age was 52 (range, 15-183) months. Nine patients had a double total collector system associated with VUR in a lower system. Two of them had a ureterocele with adequate upper polar rein function, and another had a ureterocele with complete deterioration of upper polar rein function.

RESULTS

The mean surgical time was 70 (38-120) minutes in unilateral and 124 (100-180) minutes in bilateral VUR. All procedures were successfully completed laparoscopically, and the reflux was corrected in all patients. At the same time, 1 heminephrectomy and 2 ureterocele were removed by laparoscopy and endoscopy, respectively. We had 1 ureter leakage 15 days postoperation that underwent a redo reimplantation. In cases of bilateral VUR, 1 patient presented postoperative bladder emptying difficulty and required temporary urethral catheterization postoperatively. The mean hospital stay was 24 hours. A cystogram was performed systematically in all patients at 45 days postoperation; none of them presented recurrence of VUR. The follow-up was 11 (range, 2-24) months, without recurrence of VUR.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic extravesical transperitoneal approach in the treatment of VUR is a safe and effective approach even in unilateral, bilateral simultaneous, and double total collector system. The technique results in a shorter hospital stay, less postoperative discomfort, and reduced recovery period, with a low morbidity to resolve the VUR and with success rates similar to the open technique.

Clinical pathways: effects on professional practice, patient outcomes, length of stay and hospital costs

BACKGROUND

Clinical pathways are structured multidisciplinary care plans used by health services to detail essential steps in the care of patients with a specific clinical problem. They aim to link evidence to practice and optimise clinical outcomes whilst maximising clinical efficiency.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of clinical pathways on professional practice, patient outcomes, length of stay and hospital costs.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We searched the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effectiveness (DARE), the Effective Practice and Organisation of Care (EPOC) Register, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and bibliographic databases including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, NHS EED and Global Health. We also searched the reference lists of relevant articles and contacted relevant professional organisations.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised controlled trials, controlled clinical trials, controlled before and after studies and interrupted time series studies comparing stand alone clinical pathways with usual care as well as clinical pathways as part of a multifaceted intervention with usual care.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened all titles to assess eligibility and methodological quality. Studies were grouped into those comparing clinical pathways with usual care and those comparing clinical pathways as part of a multifaceted intervention with usual care.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-seven studies involving 11,398 participants met the eligibility and study quality criteria for inclusion. Twenty studies compared stand alone clinical pathways with usual care. These studies indicated a reduction in in-hospital complications (odds ratio (OR) 0.58; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.36 to 0.94) and improved documentation (OR 13.65: 95%CI 5.38 to 34.64). There was no evidence of differences in readmission to hospital or in-hospital mortality. Length of stay was the most commonly employed outcome measure with most studies reporting significant reductions. A decrease in hospital costs/ charges was also observed, ranging from WMD +261 US$ favouring usual care to WMD -4919 US$ favouring clinical pathways (in US$ dollar standardized to the year 2000). Considerable heterogeneity prevented meta-analysis of length of stay and hospital cost results. An assessment of whether lower hospital costs contributed to cost shifting to another health sector was not undertaken.Seven studies compared clinical pathways as part of a multifaceted intervention with usual care. No evidence of differences were found between intervention and control groups.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Clinical pathways are associated with reduced in-hospital complications and improved documentation without negatively impacting on length of stay and hospital costs.

A critical pathway for successful outpatient ureteral reimplantation: a nursing perspective

Vesicoureteral reflux is a common pediatric urologic condition. Traditionally, surgical treatment of this condition requires a hospital stay of 1 to 6 days. Our experience has shown that both unilateral and bilateral extravesical ureteral reimplantation can be performed safely in the ambulatory surgery setting. Our perianesthesia care revolves around the concept of family-centered care. We have found that the key to our critical pathway involves both the patient and the family in every part of perianesthesia care. This "team" approach can be adapted for any pediatric procedure.

Laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation: technique

Laparoscopic extravesical ureteral reimplantation in children is currently a technically demanding procedure with sparse literature to aid in mastering the learning curve. We present our most recent technique and lessons learned after 20 cases in children 4-15 years of age. The literature is also reviewed to encapsulate the current state-of-the-art.

Bilateral extravesical ureteral reimplantation in toilet-trained children: short-stay procedure without urinary retention

OBJECTIVES

We have previously reported on the ability of toilet-trained children to undergo bilateral extravesical ureteral reimplantation with a 1-day hospitalization and without urinary retention using a critical pathway and modification of the surgical technique. The objective of this study was to determine whether additional refinement of the critical pathway and surgical technique could continue to result in 1-day hospitalization and possibly an outpatient procedure, without urinary retention, in toilet-trained children.

METHODS

We evaluated all toilet-trained children undergoing bilateral extravesical ureteroneocystostomy, with a critical pathway for preoperative education, operative management, and postoperative care. A modified technique was used that limits ureteral dissection, ureteral mobilization, and detrusor dissection to as distally as possible such that a 5:1 ratio of tunnel length to ureteral diameter can be accomplished. Patients followed a strict postoperative critical pathway, and parents received extensive preoperative and postoperative education. A child was required to fulfill 5 strict criteria to be discharged from the hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 84 patients underwent bilateral extravesical ureteral reimplantation. Of the 84 patients, 64 were girls and 20 were boys. The age range was 1.9-12.8 years (mean 4.6). The first 78 patients were discharged on the first postoperative day as planned. The next 6 patients in this series were discharged the same day as surgery as planned, using the modification of the critical pathway. All patients were able to spontaneously void postoperatively without any instances of acute or chronic urinary retention, acute urinary tract infection, or rehospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study further support our initial findings that bilateral extravesical ureteral reimplantation can be performed in toilet-trained children after a 1-day hospitalization without postoperative urinary retention. In the present study, this was also accomplished as an outpatient procedure.

The role of intraoperative cystography following the injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer

PURPOSE

Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer has become a popular bulking agent for subureteral injection in the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux. The success rates are lower compared to ureteral reimplantation, and, therefore, postoperative voiding cystourethrography is required. We sought to determine if post-injection intraoperative cystography can be useful in improving the success rate of injection and replacing the need for the 3 to 4-month postoperative voiding cystourethrogram.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer was injected subureterally by a single surgeon until the orifice was crescentic at the dome of the bolus. Contrast material was instilled by gravity into the bladder until capacity was reached and was monitored fluoroscopically. No voiding phase was obtained. The procedure was deemed successful only in the absence of reflux. Postoperative voiding cystourethrography performed at 3 to 4 months postoperatively was used to determine whether antibiotic administration should be discontinued. The results of the 2 cystograms were compared.

RESULTS

A total of 41 patients (64 ureters) underwent subureteral injection. Intraoperative post-injection cystogram documented reflux eradication after a single injection in 96.9% of ureters and 95.1% of patients. Two boys had persistent reflux and 1 girl had new contralateral reflux after a single injection. In these cases additional bulking agent was injected and the reflux was confirmed by a second cystogram. There were 32 patients (52 ureters) who underwent intraoperative post-injection cystography plus postoperative voiding cystourethrography at 3 to 4 months. Postoperative voiding cystourethrography documented a 77% ureteral and 69% patient success rate. None of the patients with post-injection reflux had postoperative reflux at 3 to 4 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative cystography following dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer injection may help to determine immediate success and identify cases of new contralateral reflux. However, there is insufficient correlation with the standard 3 to 4-month postoperative cystogram to advocate replacing the current standard postoperative voiding cystourethrography with an intraoperative cystogram.

Vesicoureteral reflux

Vesicoureteral reflux, the abnormal flow of urine from the bladder into the ureter, is one of the most common congenital anomalies found in children. The association of vesicoureteral reflux with urinary tract infections and renal scarring has important clinical implications. New insights into pathogenesis and new surgical techniques are changing the approach to the management of this disorder.

Is one-day hospitalization after open pyeloplasty possible and safe?

OBJECTIVES

A critical pathway was developed to determine whether open pyeloplasty could be performed in preadolescent and adolescent children with ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction with patients safely discharged after a 1-day hospitalization.

METHODS

Twenty-six consecutive children who underwent open dismembered pyeloplasty for the treatment of UPJ obstruction and followed a critical pathway for preoperative education, operative management, and postoperative care were evaluated. The patients received a caudal anesthetic for preventive analgesia unless not technically possible and postoperative ketorolac (Toradol) unless contraindicated. A child was required to fulfill five strict criteria to be discharged from the hospital.

RESULTS

The 26 patients with UPJ obstruction consisted of 18 boys and 8 girls (age range 2.4 months to 16.7 years). Of the 26 patients, 24 (92%) were discharged on the first postoperative day, with a mean length of hospitalization of 1.1 days (range 1 to 3). All patients younger than 6 years of age (19 patients) were discharged on the first postoperative day. Of the 25 patients who received a caudal block, 24 (96%) were discharged on the first postoperative day. All patients tolerated the procedure well without major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study, to our knowledge, to describe a detailed critical pathway for open pyeloplasty to treat UPJ obstruction. This enabled all children younger than 6 years of age and more than 90% of all patients to be discharged uniformly on the first postoperative day.