Outcome of Augmentation Cystoplasty and Bladder Substitution in a Pediatric Age Group

Abstract

Aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of augmentation cystoplasty and bladder substitution in a pediatric age group. Patient records of all children who underwent reconstructive bladder surgery between October 1999 and November 2007 were reviewed. Additionally, standardized interviews were performed to evaluate the postoperative outcome. Augmentation cystoplasty and bladder substitution were performed in 19 and 6 patients, respectively. 21 patients underwent continent catheterizable vesicostomy. Postoperative urodynamics revealed a significant increase in bladder volume (median 400 ml) as well as a significant improvement in bladder compliance (median 13.5 ml/cmH2O). 90% of the patients were reported to be socially continent. Renal function remained stable in 95% and decreased in 5% of the children. Major complications were lower urinary tract calculi (39%), stricture or insufficiency of the continent vesicostomy (28%), and intestinal obstruction (9%). No malignancies associated to bladder augmentation or substitution were detected yet. Augmentation cystoplasty and bladder substitution preserve renal function and provide urinary continence in most children with intractable lower urinary tract disease. However, the procedures remain associated with numerous complications.