High-grade Vesicoureteral Reflux Research Articles

Urinary tract infections in young infants with a normal urine dipstick.

To assess missed urinary tract infections (UTI) in febrile infants ≤2 months when adhering to recent guidelines suggesting not to send a urine culture with a negative dipstick. A retrospective cohort study of 308 infants ≤2 months with a positive urine culture admitted in 2013-2023, divided into subgroups without exposure to urine dipstick results: 'urosepsis' (UTI with bacteraemia), 'UTI' (positive urine culture, elevated inflammatory markers, no other cause of fever) and 'bacteriuria' (positive urine culture, not meeting the above-mentioned criteria). After retrieving the dipstick results, the 'missed UTI' group (UTI+ negative dipstick) was described. A negative dipstick was found in 2/20 (10%), 32/127 (25%) and 126/161 (78%) of infants with 'urosepsis', 'UTI' and 'bacteriuria', respectively. In the 'missed UTI' group (n = 34), there were more non-Escherichia coli UTI (68% vs. 9% with positive dipstick, p < 0.001), and lower inflammatory markers (leukocytes 15.5 vs. 17.2 k/μL, p = 0.007, C-reactive protein 21 vs. 58 mg/L, p < 0.001). Three infants had high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and renal scarring. There is a non-negligible rate of infants ≤2 months with UTI and without pyuria, including those with urosepsis, VUR and renal scarring. We suggest obtaining a urine culture regardless of dipstick results.

Genito-Urinary Reconstruction In Female Children With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Favorable Surgical Outcomes Can Be Achieved By Contemporary Techniques And A Dedicated Multidisciplinary Management.

IntroductionCongenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is the most common cause of genital atypia in females. A dedicated multidisciplinary team (MDT) should be included for an optimal management. Here, we aimed to review our surgical experience and to assess long-term urinary, gynecological and endocrine outcomes after primary genitoplasty in this specific cohort. MethodsPatients born with CAH and who underwent feminizing genitoplasty in our institution were retrospectively identified (2001-2021). We analyzed patients’ characteristics, intraoperative details, and postoperative urinary, gynecological, and endocrine outcomes. ResultsForty patients were included and followed-up for a median (IQR) time of 7 (1-19) years. Thirty-eight (95%) had 21-hydroxylase deficiency. After multidisciplinary decision and written consent from patient and/or family, a single-stage reconstructive surgery was performed at a median age of 10 (3-165) months. Median length of hospital stay was 5 (1-7) days. Procedures were: PUM (N=35 (87.5%)), TUM (N=3 (7.5%)), urogenital mobilization was unnecessary in 2 (5%). Reduction clitoroplasty was done in 33 (82.5%) patients. Only 3 (7.5%) experienced significant Clavien-Dindo complications requiring additional surgery during the follow-up period. Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI) occurred in 6 (15%), one required ureteric reimplantation for symptomatic high-grade vesicoureteric reflux. All patients over 3 years were toilet-trained without incontinence. Severe vaginal stenosis occurred in 1 (2.5%) patient. In patients who achieved puberty, 6/9 had vaginal calibration at a median age of 17.3 (16-21) years without detected stenosis. One (2.5%) had major hypertrophy of the right labia minora requiring labiaplasty. Nine (22.5%) reached puberty. Two (5%) patients developed acne/hirsutism. Short stature was noted in 11 (27.5%) and obesity in 18 (45%). ConclusionBased on our contemporary series, genitourinary reconstructive surgery for female patients born with CAH is technically feasible and safe with a low complication rate. A regular follow-up with a MDT to assess long-term complications is necessary, and it is vital to inform patients and families about the different management options with all the risks and benefits of surgery. Type of the studyoriginal research, clinical research. Level of evidenceLevel 3 retrospective study.

Revisiting the Blocksom Vesicostomy Technique in a very sick child with Bilateral high-grade VUR: A Case Report

Vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) is a common cause of repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children. Vesicostomy is considered in selective cases of high grade as an initial temporary procedure to effectively empty the bladder, prevent urinary stasis and chances of reflux, and reduce the incidence of UTI, thereby protecting the upper tracts. The most commonly followed temporary urinary diversion procedure is the one described by Blocksom in 1957. The method is simple, effective, and easy to perform, reversible, protects the upper tracts, and minimizes the incidence of UTIs. Keywords: Vesicoureteric Reflux, Temporary Urinary Diversion, Vesicostomy, Blocksom Vesicostomy, Reversible.

Stratifying Antenatal Hydronephrosis: Predicting High-Grade VUR Using Ultrasound and Scintigraphy.

(1) Background: Antenatal hydronephrosis (AHN), detected in approximately one percent of prenatal ultrasounds, is caused by vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in 15-21% of cases, a condition with significant risks such as urinary tract infections and renal scarring. Our study addresses the diagnostic challenges of VUR in AHN. Utilizing renal ultrasonography and scintigraphy, we developed a novel scoring system that accurately predicts high-grade VUR, optimizing diagnostic precision while minimizing the need for more invasive methods like voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG); (2) Methods: This retrospective study re-analyzed renal ultrasonography, scintigraphy, and VCUG images from infants admitted between 2003 and 2013, excluding cases with complex urinary anomalies; (3) Results: Our analysis included 124 patients (75% male), of whom 11% had high-grade VUR. The multivariate analysis identified visible ureter, reduced renal length, and decreased differential renal function (DRF) as primary predictors. Consequently, we established a three-tier risk score, classifying patients into low, intermediate, and high-risk groups for high-grade VUR, with corresponding prevalences of 2.3%, 22.2%, and 75.0%. The scoring system demonstrated 86% sensitivity and 79% specificity; (4) Conclusions: Our scoring system, focusing on objective parameters of the visible ureter, renal length, and DRF, effectively identifies high-grade VUR in AHN patients. This method enhances diagnostics in ANH by reducing reliance on VCUG and facilitating more tailored and less invasive patient care.

Risk factors for new renal scarring in children with vesicoureteral reflux receiving continuous antibiotic prophylaxis

To investigate the risk factors for new renal scarring (NRS) in children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) receiving continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP). This was a single-center cohort study. The clinical data of 140 children with grade I–V VUR receiving CAP were analyzed. In this study, exposure variables were sex, younger age at the initial diagnosis of UTI ≤ 12 months, the occurrence of breakthrough urinary tract infection (BT-UTI), high-grade VUR, bilateral VUR, etiology, presence of renal scarring at the initial diagnosis and ultrasound abnormalities. The outcome was NRS. A total of 140 children were included in the risk factor analysis of NRS, 73 of whom experienced NRS, an incidence rate of 52.14%. Multivariate Cox regression suggested that the presence of renal function impairment after the initial diagnosis of UTI (OR 3.411, 95% CI 1.5751–6.646) and the occurrence of BT-UTI while receiving CAP (OR 1.995, 95% CI 1.089–2.958) were independent risk factors for NRS. Multivariate Cox regression showed that high-grade VUR had no significant effects on NRS (OR 0.940, 95% CI 0.462–1.912, P = 0.864). No significant difference was identified in multivariate Cox regression analysis in the IV–V group (vs I–III group) (OR 0.960, 95% CI 0.565–1.633, P = 0.960). Renal function impairment after the initial diagnosis of UTI and the occurrence of BT-UTI while receiving CAP were independent risk factors for NRS. Neither univariate analysis nor multivariate analysis found a correlation between VUR grade and NRS.

High-grade Vesicoureteral Reflux in Patients With Anorectal Malformation From the ARM-Net Registry: Is Our Screening Sufficient?

BackgroundVesico-ureteral reflux (VUR) is a common associated urological anomaly in anorectal malformation (ARM)-patients. High-grade VUR requires antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent urinary tract infections (UTI's), renal scarring and -failure. The exact prevalence of high-grade VUR in ARM patients is unknown. Hence, the aim of this study was determining the incidence of high-grade VUR in ARM-patients, and its associated risk factors. MethodsA multicenter retrospective cohort study was performed using the ARM-Net registry, including data from 34 centers. Patient characteristics, screening for and presence of renal anomalies and VUR, sacral and spinal anomalies, and sacral ratio were registered. Phenotypes of ARM were grouped according to their complexity in complex and less complex. Multivariable analyses were performed to detect independent risk factors for high-grade (grade III-V) VUR. ResultsThis study included 2502 patients (50 % female). Renal screening was performed in 2250 patients (90 %), of whom 648 (29 %) had a renal anomaly documented. VUR-screening was performed in 789 patients (32 %), establishing high-grade VUR in 150 (19 %). In patients with a normal renal screening, high-grade VUR was still present in 10 % of patients. Independent risk factors for presence of high-grade VUR were a complex ARM (OR 2.6, 95 %CI 1.6–4.3), and any renal anomaly (OR 3.3, 95 %CI 2.1–5.3). ConclusionsAlthough renal screening is performed in the vast majority of patients, only 32 % underwent VUR-screening. Complex ARM and any renal anomaly were independent risk factors for high-grade VUR. Remarkably, 10 % had high-grade VUR despite normal renal screening. Therefore, VUR-screening seems indicated in all ARM patients regardless of renal screening results, to prevent sequelae such as UTI's, renal scarring and ultimately renal failure. Type of StudyObservational Cohort-Study. Level of EvidenceIII.

Commentary to a multi-institutional European comparative study of open versus robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation in children with high grade (IV–V) vesicoureteral reflux

Commentary to a multi-institutional European comparative study of open versus robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation in children with high grade (IV–V) vesicoureteral reflux

A multi-institutional European comparative study of open versus robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation in children with high grade (IV–V) vesicoureteral reflux

Traditionally, open ureteral reimplantation (OUR) has been the standard treatment for primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) requiring reimplantation. Robotic-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation (RALUR) is gaining popularity and high success rates have been reported. In this multi-institutional study, we aimed to compare the perioperative and postoperative outcomes of OUR and RALUR for high-grade (IV+V) VUR in children. A retrospective evaluation was performed collecting data from 135 children (0-18 years) who underwent high grade VUR surgical correction at nine European institutions between 01/01/2009 and 01/12/2020, involving either open or robotic approaches. Institutional review board approval was obtained. Patients with lower grades of VUR (≤III), previous history of open or endoscopic ureteral surgery, neurogenic bladder, or refluxing megaureter in need of ureteral tapering were excluded. Pre-, peri- and post-operative data were statistically compared. Overall, 135 children who underwent either OUR (n=68), or RALUR (n=67) were included, and their clinic and demographic features were collected. The mean age of the open group was 11 months (interquartile range [IQR] 9.9-16.6 months), in the RALUR group it was 59 months (IQR 29-78mo) (p<0.01); the open cohort had a weight of 11kg (IQR 9.9-16.6kg) while the RALUR group had 19kg (IQR 13-25kg) (p<0.01). No significant differences were found for intraoperative (1.5% vs 7.5%, p=0.09) or for postoperative complication rates (7.4% vs 9%, p=0.15). Favorable outcomes were reported in the RALUR group: shorter time to stooling (1 vs 2 days), fewer indwelling urethral catheter days (1 vs 5 days), perioperative drain insertion time (1 vs 5 days) and a shorter length of hospital stay (2 vs 5 days) (p<0.01). The success rate was 94.0% and 98.5% in the open and RALUR groups, respectively. The long-term clinical success rates from both groups was comparable:42 vs 23 months for open and RALUR, respectively. This study reported a large multicentric experience focusing on high grade VUR. Furthermore, this study compares favorably to OUR in a safety analysis. There was also a trend towards higher success rates with RALUR utilizing an extravesical approach which has not been previously reported. RALUR is an efficacious and safe platform to use during ureteral reimplantation for high grade VUR. The overall peri-operative and post-operative complication rates are at least equivalent to OUR, but it is associated with a faster functional recovery and time to discharge. Medium to long term success rates are also equivalent to OUR.

Quantification of vesicoureteral reflux using machine learning

The radiographic grading of voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) images is often used to determine the clinical course and appropriate treatment in patients with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). However, image-based evaluation of VUR remains highly subjective, so we developed a supervised machine learning model to automatically and objectively grade VCUG data. A total of 113 VCUG images were gathered from public sources to compile the dataset for this study. For each image, VUR severity was graded by four pediatric radiologists and three pediatric urologists (low severity scored 1-3; high severity 4-5). Ground truth for each image was assigned based on the grade diagnosed by a majority of the expert assessors. Nine features were extracted from each VCUG image, then six machine learning models were trained, validated, and tested using 'leave-one-out' cross-validation. All features were compared and contrasted, with the highest-ranked then being used to train the final models. F1-score is a metric that is often used to indicate performance accuracy of machine learning models. When using the highest-ranked VCUG image features, F1-scores for the support vector machine (SVM) and multi-layer perceptron (MLP) classifiers were 90.27% and 91.14%, respectively, indicating a high level of accuracy. When using all features combined, F1 scores were 89.37% for SVM and 90.27% for MLP. These findings indicate that a distorted pattern of renal calyces is an accurate predictor of high-grade VUR. Machine learning protocols can be enhanced in future to improve objective grading of VUR.

Evidence-based clinical practice guideline for management of urinary tract infection and primary vesicoureteric reflux.

We present updated, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines from the Indian Society of Pediatric Nephrology (ISPN) for the management of urinary tract infection (UTI) and primary vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) in children. These guidelines conform to international standards; Institute of Medicine and AGREE checklists were used to ensure transparency, rigor, and thoroughness in the guideline development. In view of the robust methodology, these guidelines are applicable globally for the management of UTI and VUR. Seventeen recommendations and 18 clinical practice points have been formulated. Some of the key recommendations and practice points are as follows. Urine culture with > 104 colony forming units/mL is considered significant for the diagnosis of UTI in an infant if the clinical suspicion is strong. Urine leukocyte esterase and nitrite can be used as an alternative screening test to urine microscopy in a child with suspected UTI. Acute pyelonephritis can be treated with oral antibiotics in a non-toxic infant for 7-10days. An acute-phase DMSA scan is not recommended in the evaluation of UTI. Micturating cystourethrography (MCU) is indicated in children with recurrent UTI, abnormal kidney ultrasound, and in patients below 2years of age with non-E. coli UTI. Dimercaptosuccinic acid scan (DMSA scan) is indicated only in children with recurrent UTI and high-grade (3-5) VUR. Antibiotic prophylaxis is not indicated in children with a normal urinary tract after UTI. Prophylaxis is recommended to prevent UTI in children with bladder bowel dysfunction (BBD) and those with high-grade VUR. In children with VUR, prophylaxis should be stopped if the child is toilet trained, free of BBD, and has not had a UTI in the last 1year. Surgical intervention in high-grade VUR can be considered for parental preference over antibiotic prophylaxis or in children developing recurrent breakthrough febrile UTIs on antibiotic prophylaxis.

Voiding Sistoüretrogram ile Tanı Konulan Vezikoüreteral Reflü'nün Saptanmasında Dinamik Böbrek Sintigrafisinin Rolü

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the role of standardized dynamic renal scintigraphy (DRS) in recognizing vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in patients detected with VUR by voiding cystourethrography (VCUG). Methods: The data of all pediatric patients who underwent both VCUG and DRS [technetium-99m diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Tc-99m DTPA) or technetium-99m mercaptoacetyltriglycine dynamic renal scintigraphy (Tc-99m MAG-3)] in our hospital between 2013 and 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Tc-99m MAG-3 was used in infants and Tc-99m DTPA radiopharmaceutical in children over one year old. According to VCUG findings, VUR grades were grouped as grade I-II-III low-grade VUR and IV-V high-grade VUR. The role of DRS in detecting VUR in both low and high-VUR-grade groups was evaluated. Results: A total of 56 patients (and 69 renal units), 23 girls (%41.1), and 33 boys (%68.9) were included in this study. The median value of the time elapsed between the DRS and VCUG examinations was nine days. According to VCUG, VUR was grade I in five renal units, grade II in 19 renal units, grade III in six renal units, grade IV in six renal units, and grade V in 33 renal units. DRS detected VUR in two of 30 renal units (%6.7) in the low VUR grade group. On the other hand, VUR was observed with DRS in 27 of 39 renal units (%69.2) in the high VUR grade group. Conclusions: Standardized DRS shows very low sensitivity in recognizing low-grade VUR, and its performance in detecting high-grade VUR is comparatively better. Raising awareness among clinicians that VUR can be observed with standardized DRS will benefit the patient in terms of early detection of accompanying VUR pathologies.

Intraoperative ultrasound-assisted endoscopic treatment of primary intermediate and high-grade vesicoureteral reflux in children in a long-term follow-up

Endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is an important minimally invasive surgical approach in patients undergoing surgical treatment of VUR. In our past experience, we observed that a bulking agent mound sagittal diameter of 10mm is the main predictor of effectiveness of the procedure. Moreover we noticed that the use of intraoperative ultrasound, allows the surgeon to better identify the site, volume and shape of the bulking agent injected, finally reducing operative time. We aimed to evaluate if the intraoperative ultrasound assistance could definitively improve effectiveness of the endoscopic procedure. We retrospectively compared two series treated with endoscopic procedures for intermediate and high grade primary VUR, respectively without (series A) and with (series B) intraoperative ultrasound (IO-US). In all patients VCUG was performed to assess VUR grade and to verify resolution or VUR downgrading during the follow-up. A total of 177 ureteric units were treated. Endoscopic procedures globally were effective in 68/96 ureters (70.8%) in series A and in 68/81 ureters (83.9%) in series B. No significant differences in effectiveness were observed comparing the series with regard to VUR grades, but a significant difference is shown (p<0.05) when grouping grades III-V VUR. No significance in differences of volume injected were detected, but operative time was significantly lower in series B (27.5min vs 19.6min, p<0.05). Mean sagittal mound diameter measured during cystoscopy in series B was 10.45mm (range 8.5-14.2mm). The intraoperative ultrasound assistance during endoscopic treatment of VUR could represent a valid tool for surgeons to better identify location, volume and shape of the bulking agent. Furthermore, the use of an objective parameter of evaluation of the implant can overcome the subjective intraoperative evaluation of the implant itself, improving results for experienced surgeons and reducing the learning-curve for inexperienced ones. Results of endoscopic injection of bulking-agent can be improved with intraoperative ultrasound, allowing at the same time a significant reduction of operative time.

Evaluation of the results of urodynamic studies in patients with vesicoureteral reflux.

To investigate urodynamic abnormalities associated with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in toilet-trained children. The data of 157 children who were diagnosed with vesicoureteral reflux and referred to our hospital between 2013 and 2022 were retrospectively examined. The urodynamic parameters were analyzed and correlated with age, gender, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), reflux severity, and laterality. Overall, 131 (83.4%) patients had abnormal urodynamic findings with a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.4. The most common pathological finding was detrusor overactivity (DO), identified in 101 (64.3%) patients, followed by dysfunctional voiding (DV) in 74 (50.3%) patients. Children with VUR grades II and III exhibited a greater percentage of abnormal urodynamic findings than children with grades IV and V. The prevalence of DO was higher in children younger than 10 years old with unilateral and lower-grade VURs. DV was more frequent in children older than 10 years, with bilateral VUR, and higher grade VUR. The prevalence of LUTS, bowel and bladder dysfunction (BBD), and urinary tract infection (UTI) was higher among children with abnormal urodynamic findings. Children with VUR have a high incidence of urodynamic disorders. Urodynamic dysfunction may contribute to the pathogenesis of VUR, especially in mild cases.

Successful rescue pneumovesicoscopic surgery for post-Deflux® vesicoureteral junction obstruction.

Vesicoureteral junction (VUJ) obstruction after Deflux® subureteral injection for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is rare and minimally invasive management has not been reported. This work investigated the patients who underwent Deflux® injection for VUR and identified those with subsequent VUJ obstruction. Medical records of matched patients from October 2003 to March 2022 were reviewed, and parameters were retrospectively studied. All patients underwent Deflux® injection. The injection was performed under general anesthesia using the same manner. For patients complicated with VUJ obstruction, the symptoms, signs, management, images, renal ultrasounds, Tc-99m dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintigraphy, histology of VUJ region, and outcomes were documented and reported. VUJ stenosis was diagnosed by performing renal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging. Totally 407 patients (554 ureterorenal units) received Dx/HA injections for VUR. VUJ obstruction was found in three patients (four ureterorenal units). Originally, three were grade V VUR, and one was grade IV. The repeated injection was not a risk factor for VUJ obstruction. The overall incidence of VUJ obstruction post-Dx/HA injection was 0.7% by ureter. The incidences were 0%, 0.75%, and 2.25% for grade I-III, IV, and V VUR, respectively. After the initial conversion case of pneumovesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation, the procedure was performed smoothly and successfully in the two following cases. Pneumovesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation offers an alternative for VUJ obstruction following Dx/HA injection for VUR. Fibrosis and foreign-body reaction may influence the feasibility. High-grade VUR and young age of injection were related to VUJ obstruction.

A quantitative analysis of voiding cystourethrogram features confirms the association between high-grade vesicoureteral reflux with male sex, younger age, and hydronephrosis.

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is commonly diagnosed in the workup of urinary tract infections or hydronephrosis in children. Traditionally, VUR severity is graded subjectively based on voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) imaging. Herein, we characterized the association between age, sex, and indication for VCUG, by employing standardized quantitative features. We included renal units with a high certainty in VUR grade (>80% consensus) from the qVUR model validation study at our institution between 2013 and 2019. We abstracted the following variables: age, sex, laterality, indication for VCUG, and qVUR parameters (tortuosity, ureter widths on VCUG). High-grade VUR was defined as grade 4 or 5 The association between each variable and VUR grade was assessed. A total of 443 patients (523 renal units) were included, consisting of a 48:52 male/female ratio. The median age at VCUG was 13 months. Younger age at VCUG (<6 months) was associated with greater odds of severe VUR (odds ratio [OR] 2.0), and there was a weak correlation between age and VUR grade (ρ=-0.17). Male sex was associated with increased odds of high-grade VUR (OR 2.7). VCUGs indicated for hydronephrosis were associated with high-grade VUR (OR 4.1) compared to those indicated for UTI only. Ureter tortuosity and width were significantly associated with each clinical variable and VUR severity. Male sex, younger age (<6 months), and history of hydronephrosis are associated with both high-grade VUR and standardized quantitative measures, including greater ureter tortuosity and increased ureteral width. This lends support to quantitative assessment to improve reliability in VUR grading.

Risk factors associated with recurrent febrile urinary tract infection in children with neurogenic bladder who perform clean intermittent catheterization.

To identify the clinical and urodynamic risk factors associated with the development of recurrent febrile urinary tract infections (FUTIs) in children with neurogenic bladder (NB) who perform clean intermittent catheterization(CIC). Children with NB receiving CIC were prospectively enrolled from January to December 2019 and followed up prospectively for 2 years. All data were compared between occasional (0-1 FUTI) and recurrent FUTIs (≥2 FUTI) groups. In addition, the risk factors for recurrent FUTIs in children were evaluated. Complete data from 321 children were analyzed. Occasional FUTIs occurred in 223 patients, and 98 patients experienced recurrent FUTIs. Univariate and multivariate analyses, showed late-initiation and low-frequency CIC, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), small bladder capacity and low compliance, and detrusor overactivity were associated with an increased risk of recurrent FUTIs. Children with high-grade VUR (grades IV-V) had a higher risk of recurrent FUTIs than those with low-grade VUR (grades I-III) (odds ratio [OR]: 26.95 vs.OR: 4.78, p < 0.001). Our study suggests that late-initiation and low-frequency CIC, VUR, small bladder capacity and low compliance, and detrusor overactivity were associated with recurrent FUTIs in patients with NB. In addition, high-grade VUR is a crucial risk factor for recurrent FUTIs.

Clinical outcomes and risk factor analysis of early endoscopic puncture decompression for ureterocele associated with duplex kidney in children: a single-center retrospective study

PurposeThe aims of this study were to analyze the clinical outcomes of treating duplex system ureteroceles with early endoscopic puncture decompression and to identify the risk factors related to outcomes to help guide future work.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of patients with ureteroceles with duplex kidney that were treated with early endoscopic puncture decompression. Charts were reviewed for demographics, preoperative imaging, surgical indications, and follow-up data. Recurrent febrile urinary tract infections (fUTIs), de novo vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), persistent high-grade VUR, unrelieved hydroureteronephrosis, and the need for further intervention were considered unfavorable outcomes. Gender, age at surgery, BMI, antenatal diagnosis, fUTIs, bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), type of ureterocele, ipsilateral VUR diagnosed before surgery, simultaneously upper-pole moiety (UM) and lower-pole moiety (LM) obstruction, the width of ureter affiliated to UM, and maximum diameter of ureterocele were all considered potential risk factors. A binary logistic regression model was used to identify the risk factors of unfavorable outcomes.ResultsA total of 36 patients with ureteroceles related to duplex kidney underwent endoscopic holmium laser puncture from 2015 to 2023 at our institution. After a median follow-up of 21.6 months, unfavorable outcomes developed in 17 patients (47.2%). Three patients underwent ipsilateral common-sheath ureter reimplantation and one patient underwent laparoscopic ipsilateral upper to lower ureteroureterostomy combined with recipient ureter reimplantation. Three patients underwent laparoscopic upper-pole nephrectomy. Fifteen patients suffered from recurrent UTIs were treated with oral antibiotics and eight of them were diagnosed de novo VUR according to voiding cystourethrography (VCUG). In univariate analysis, patients with simultaneously UM and LM obstruction (P = 0.003), fUTIs before surgery (P = 0.044), and ectopic ureterocele (P = 0.031) were more likely to have unfavorable outcomes. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that ectopic ureterocele (OR = 10.793, 95% CI 1.248–93.312, P = 0.031) and simultaneously UM and LM obstruction (OR = 8.304, 95% CI 1.311–52.589, P = 0.025) were identified as independent factors for unfavorable outcomes.ConclusionsOur study suggested that early endoscopic puncture decompression is not a preferred but an available treatment option to release BOO or to cure refractory UTIs. It was easier to fail if the ureterocele was ectopic or simultaneously UM and LM obstruction existed. Gender, age at surgery, BMI, antenatal diagnosis, fUTIs, bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), ipsilateral VUR diagnosed before surgery, the width of ureter affiliated to UM, and maximum diameter of ureterocele were not significantly related to the success rate of early endoscopic punctures.

MP70-15 PRIMARY VESICOURETERAL REFLUX IN A MODERN COHORT: WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS?

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP70-15 PRIMARY VESICOURETERAL REFLUX IN A MODERN COHORT: WHAT ARE THE RISK FACTORS FOR URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS? Daniel Wilkinson, Matthew Buell, Kai Wen Cheng, Cayde Ritchie, Levi Miles, Jocelyn Huang, Ala’a Farkouh, David Chamberlin, and Joshua Chamberlin Daniel WilkinsonDaniel Wilkinson More articles by this author , Matthew BuellMatthew Buell More articles by this author , Kai Wen ChengKai Wen Cheng More articles by this author , Cayde RitchieCayde Ritchie More articles by this author , Levi MilesLevi Miles More articles by this author , Jocelyn HuangJocelyn Huang More articles by this author , Ala’a FarkouhAla’a Farkouh More articles by this author , David ChamberlinDavid Chamberlin More articles by this author , and Joshua ChamberlinJoshua Chamberlin More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003338.15AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) are known to be at increased risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). With a trend towards observational management of children with VUR, untreated VUR and subsequent UTI can lead to significant morbidity. The purpose of this study was to identify risk factors for development of UTI in a modern cohort of children with primary VUR. METHODS: We performed a review of a prospectively maintained clinical database of children with primary VUR at a single children’s hospital from July 2013 to June 2022. Children were included if they were diagnosed with primary VUR by voiding cystourethrography between the ages of 1 day to 18 years. Patients with secondary VUR were excluded. Demographic and clinical data were collected. The primary endpoint was development of a UTI defined by pyuria (>6 WBC/hpf or positive leukocyte esterase) on urinalysis and single-organism urine culture greater than 50,000 CFU/mL. Low-grade (LG) VUR was defined as International VUR grades 1-3 and high-grade (HG) VUR was defined as International VUR grades 4 and 5. Dilated ureter was defined as any ureteral dilation greater than 2 mm. Data were analyzed by performing univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regressions as well as Chi Square tests. RESULTS: A total of 242 children had primary VUR, 116 (47.9%) male and 126 (52.1%) female. UTI occurred in 42 (17.3%) children with primary VUR, with an average follow-up time of 20.1 months [IQR of 6.2 - 45.0]. Female sex (HR: 2.39, 95% CI 1.22 - 4.67, p=0.011) and younger age at presentation of VUR (HR-1: 1.01, 95% CI 1.00 - 1.02, p=0.015) were found to be independent risk factors on multivariate analysis. Univariate analysis showed increased UTI rates in dilated ureter (14.6% non-dilated vs 30.5% dilated, p=0.024), HG VUR grade (13.2% in LG vs 23.7% in HG, p=0.038), and renal pelvis anterior-posterior diameter (APD) (16.9% ≤ 15 mm, 31.9% >15 mm p=0.032). Circumcision, degree of phimosis, constipation, voiding dysfunction, SFU grade of hydronephrosis, and prior febrile UTI were not found to be independent risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Risk factors for UTI in children with primary VUR include female sex, age younger than 50 days old, dilated ureter, HG VUR, and hydronephrosis with APD greater than 15 mm. Treatment may be individualized to treat these higher risk patients. Further multi-institutional study of patients with primary VUR may help to further elucidate risk factors for UTI and improve the management of these patients. Source of Funding: none © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e1009 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Daniel Wilkinson More articles by this author Matthew Buell More articles by this author Kai Wen Cheng More articles by this author Cayde Ritchie More articles by this author Levi Miles More articles by this author Jocelyn Huang More articles by this author Ala’a Farkouh More articles by this author David Chamberlin More articles by this author Joshua Chamberlin More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

MP53-13 DOES THE PRESENCE OF PRESSURE "POP-OFFS" IMPACT VOIDING EFFICIENCY AND BLADDER OUTCOMES IN POSTERIOR URETHRAL VALVES?

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP53-13 DOES THE PRESENCE OF PRESSURE "POP-OFFS" IMPACT VOIDING EFFICIENCY AND BLADDER OUTCOMES IN POSTERIOR URETHRAL VALVES? Adree Khondker, Priyank Yadav, Jin Kyu Kim, Michael Chua, Natasha Brownrigg, Juliane Richter, Joana Dos Santos, Armando Lorenzo, and Mandy Rickard Adree KhondkerAdree Khondker More articles by this author , Priyank YadavPriyank Yadav More articles by this author , Jin Kyu KimJin Kyu Kim More articles by this author , Michael ChuaMichael Chua More articles by this author , Natasha BrownriggNatasha Brownrigg More articles by this author , Juliane RichterJuliane Richter More articles by this author , Joana Dos SantosJoana Dos Santos More articles by this author , Armando LorenzoArmando Lorenzo More articles by this author , and Mandy RickardMandy Rickard More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003301.13AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: The protective role of pressure pop-offs, consisting of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and ipsilateral kidney dysplasia, in posterior urethral valve (PUV) is controversial. While there has been significant emphasis on exploring the non-significant association between “pop-offs” and kidney function, there is paucity of data on the impact of this mechanism on bladder function. Here, we analyzed this association by examining the role of pressure pop-offs on long-term bladder outcomes in PUV patients. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted for toilet-trained children with PUV managed at our institution between 2000 and 2022, only excluding cases without recorded uroflowmetry studies. Patients were stratified by the presence of pressure pop-offs (high-grade VUR+ipsilateral kidney dysplasia). Outcomes included uroflowmetry parameters and initiation of clean-intermittent catheterization (CIC). Survival analysis was conducted to calculate hazard ratios (HR). RESULTS: We identified a total of 101 patients who met study inclusion criteria, with a median follow-up of 114 months (IQR 67, 169). The median age of first and last uroflowmetry was 57 months (IQR 48, 82) and 120 months (IQR 89, 160), respectively. Patients with pressure pop-offs had similar flow velocity, post-void residuals, and bladder voiding efficiency to other PUV patients at last follow-up uroflowmetry. On survival analysis, patients with pressure pop-offs had no significant difference in risk of requiring CIC compared to patients without pop-offs (HR 1.92, p=0.06). Kidney dysplasia was independently associated with increased risk of CIC (HR 3.16, p=0.02) while VUR was not (HR 1.85, p=0.07). CONCLUSIONS: We show that boys with pressure pop-offs are not at higher risk of poorer voiding and intermittent catheterization than others with PUV. By extension, VURD syndrome does not confer protection against poorer bladder function. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e717 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Adree Khondker More articles by this author Priyank Yadav More articles by this author Jin Kyu Kim More articles by this author Michael Chua More articles by this author Natasha Brownrigg More articles by this author Juliane Richter More articles by this author Joana Dos Santos More articles by this author Armando Lorenzo More articles by this author Mandy Rickard More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Does VURD syndrome impact voiding efficiency in posterior urethral valves?

There is debate regarding the effect of VURD syndrome, consisting of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and ipsilateral kidney dysplasia, on long-term outcomes in boys with posterior urethral valve (PUV). Here, we assessed whether VURD syndrome played a "protective" role on long-term bladder outcomes and voiding efficiency in boys with PUV. A retrospective chart review was conducted for toilet-trained children with PUV managed at our institution between 2000 and 2022, only excluding cases without recorded uroflowmetry studies. Patients were stratified by VUR status and by the presence of VURD syndrome (high-grade VUR+ipsilateral kidney dysplasia). Outcomes included initial and final uroflowmetry parameters, and initiation of clean-intermittent catheterization (CIC). We identified a total of 101 patients who met study inclusion criteria, with an overall median follow-up of 114 months (IQR 67, 169). The median age of first and last uroflowmetry was 57 months (IQR 48, 82) and 120 months (IQR 89, 160), respectively. Patients with VURD syndrome had similar flow velocity, post-void residuals, and bladder voiding efficiency to other PUV patients at last follow-up uroflowmetry. On survival analysis, patients with VURD syndrome had no significant difference in risk of requiring CIC compared to patients without pop-offs (p=0.06). Like more contemporary studies on pressure pop-offs, we show that this population is not at higher risk of poorer voiding and intermittent catheterization than others. VURD syndrome does not confer protection against poorer bladder function. Instead, our study suggests an independent association between kidney dysplasia and bladder outcomes which requires further attention. Among boys with PUV, VURD syndrome was not associated with significantly different uroflowmetry findings or rates of CIC by last follow-up.