Long-Term Follow-Up after Ureteral Reimplantation in Children: A 12-Year Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Background Ureteral reimplantation (UR) is a well-established procedure, yet there exists a notable absence of evidence-based guidelines for postoperative follow-up. Existing literature suggests that routine follow-up extending beyond one year may not yield significant advantages, particularly for asymptomatic children. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that many studies supporting this assertion rely on relatively short observation periods. Aims This study seeks to address the potential emergence of late-presenting complications post UR. Our objective is to comprehensively evaluate our patient cohort for the incidence of conditions warranting the establishment of standardized, long-term follow-up practices after UR. Methods Retrospective review of 137 medical records from children who underwent UR at our institution between January 2006 and June 2013. Inclusion criteria required a minimum 10-year postoperative follow-up. Results Fifty-three renal units in 34 children met inclusion criteria. Ureterovesical junction (UVJ) obstruction occurred in 7.5% of the units and was diagnosed within eight months after UR. Obstruction occurred exclusively after Politano-Leadbetter reimplantation and was silent in all cases. Postoperative UTIs occurred in 9 children. Notably, these were all singular events without signs for recurrent reflux. A decade after surgery, one child developed chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to preexisting reflux nephropathy (RN), while one child was newly diagnosed with RN during follow-up despite the timely surgical correction of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). or hypertension linked to RN were recorded. Conclusion Children with uncomplicated postoperative recoveries within the first-year, devoid of evident UVJ obstruction, exhibit a low subsequent risk, suggesting limited benefit from repeated scheduled long-term follow-up. Nevertheless, we recommend that general practitioners conduct regular monitoring, considering individual risk factors, to enhance the detection of late-onset hypertension or proteinuria as potential indicators of RN during adolescence.