Pediatric Pyeloplasty Research Articles

Risk factors influencing the recurrence of obstruction post-pediatric pyeloplasty: a single-center prospective study

ABSTRACT Background Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is the leading cause of pediatric hydronephrosis. While open pyeloplasty is highly effective, a small proportion of children experience recurrent ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) necessitating repeat intervention. We aimed to identify potential risk factors for pyeloplasty failure. Methods We prospectively followed 126 children undergoing open Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty between 2019 and 2021. Demographic, clinical, anatomical, procedural, and postoperative variables were recorded. Patients were monitored for recurrence, defined as worsening hydronephrosis and/or symptoms with diuretic renogram confirmation. Univariate and multivariate analysis identified factors associated with recurrence. Results Median age at pyeloplasty was 17 months, left side was affected in 58% and 73.8% were male. At mean 28.8 months follow-up, UPJO recurred in 9 patients (7%). The only factor significantly associated with recurrence was prolonged postoperative urinary drain leakage, specifically recurrence occurred in 50% (3/6) of cases with prolonged leakage versus 5% (6/120) without (p = 0.005). Conclusions Open pediatric pyeloplasty has a high success rate, yet a minority of patients will experience recurrence necessitating re-intervention. Prolonged urine leakage was the sole predictor of failed repair in our cohort, likely due to inflammation and perianastomotic scarring. Meticulous surgical technique and prompt leak management are vital to optimize pyeloplasty outcomes. Children at higher risk warrant close monitoring to enable early detection and renal salvage.

Single-port robotic extraperitoneal pediatric pyeloplasty using low anterior access: Description of technique and initial experience

IntroductionWe aim to report our surgical technique, functional and radiological outcomes of single port (SP) extraperitoneal robotic pediatric pyeloplasty through a low anterior (3cm) access using a da-Vinci single-port (SP) robotic surgical system in the pediatric population. Material and methodsWe present our initial series of 6 pediatric patients that underwent robotic SP extraperitoneal pyeloplasty between 2022 - 2023. Patient clinicopathologic variables and perioperative outcomes were collected prospectively. ResultsAll cases of SP extraperitoneal pyeloplasty were completed without any intraoperative complications or conversion to an open, laparoscopic, or multi-port robotic pyeloplasty. Total operative times including cystoscopy ranged from 178 mins to 240 mins. All patients tolerated the surgery with minimal postsurgical pain and no narcotic requirement. No intraoperative or immediate postoperative complications were recorded in the cohort. There were no readmissions after discharge at a median follow-up of 12 months (6-18 months) in our series. ConclusionsSingle port extraperitoneal pyeloplasty is a safe and feasible option for upper tract reconstruction in pediatric patients. All patients had complete resolution of symptoms and improvement of hydronephrosis on follow-up imaging.

Is Percentage Improvement in Anteroposterior Pelvic Diameter a Valuable Marker for Successful Drainage Postpyeloplasty in Isolated Pediatric Pelvi-ureteric Junction Obstruction.

Pelvic-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO) causes urine stasis in the renal pelvis and progressive kidney damage. Postpyeloplasty improvement of renal function and urinary drainage is assessed by diuretic isotope renogram and ultrasonography. Renograms are expensive and have radiation exposure. This study explores whether ultrasound parameters such as percentage improvement in anteroposterior pelvic diameter (PI-APD) is a valuable markers for successful pediatric pyeloplasties. The aim of this study was to identify patients who would benefit from ultrasound monitoring of PI-APD alone instead of diuretic isotope renal scan for postoperative follow-up of pyeloplasty. This was a retrospective descriptive study. We analyzed 127 pediatric pyeloplasties performed and under follow-up between June 2016 and May 2021. We recorded the postoperative ultrasound and isotope renogram parameters. PI-APD (preoperative AP diameter - postoperative AP diameter)/preoperative AP diameter × 100) was compared with improvement in renogram parameters (differential renal function, Tmax, curve pattern, and retention) to look for a correlation between them. SPSS version 20.5, Chi-square and paired t-test were used for statistical analysis. About 73.2% of patients were males, with most cases detected antenatally (76.4%). The majority was left-sided PUJO (67.7%). The mean age at surgery was 30.8 months. We identified a statistically significant correlation between the ultrasound parameter PI-APD and the renogram parameter Tmax. There is no significant correlation between PI-APD and other renogram parameters. In patients whose ultrasound parameter PI-APD is >40% and renal parenchymal thickness has increased, isotope renograms can be avoided for follow-up of postpyeloplasty patients.

What to Expect on the Long-term Follow-up of Pediatric Pyeloplasty: Critical Time Intervals and Risk Factors

BackgroundStandard protocol for post-pyeloplasty monitoring in children and natural course of hydronephrosis resolution have not been well defined. We aimed to analyze critical time intervals and risk factors in the long-term clinical outcomes of children who were operated for ureteropelvic junction obstruction. MethodsFiles of patients who underwent open dismembered pyeloplasty between January 2000 and December 2012 and had a ≥10 years follow-up were retrospectively reviewed. Changes in SFU hydronephrosis grade, pelvis anteroposterior diameter (APD), renal parenchymal thickness, split renal functions (SRF) on MAG-3 scan as well as development of hypertension and proteinuria were noted. Complete resolution was defined as SFU grade 0–1 or APD≤10 mm or ≥50 % APD decrease. ResultsOverall, 223 patients (161 boys, 72.1 %) with a median age of 9 (range 1–185) months underwent unilateral pyeloplasty, whereas 14 patients (13 boys, 92.8 %) with a median age of 4 (range 2–39) months underwent bilateral pyeloplasty. Median follow-up was 13 (range 10–22) years. Complete resolution was observed in 190 patients (85.2 %). None of the cases required re-do pyeloplasty. Regarding unilateral cases, postoperative changes in hydronephrosis reached a plateau at the 60th month. Also, there was no significant difference regarding SRF between the 12th month and the 60th month (p > 0.05). Hypertension developed after a median period of 12 years in 13 (5.4 %) of the patients, while proteinuria developed in four (1.6 %) patients. Bilateral disease (HR: 2.518, p = 0.034) was found to be a significant determinant for development of hypertension and/or proteinuria. ConclusionsOur results indicated that ultrasonographic findings stabilized after the 60th month postoperatively, and SRF remained stable between the postoperative 12th and the 60th months. The risk of developing hypertension and/or proteinuria was 2.5 times greater in bilateral cases. Level of EvidenceLevel II.

Risk factors for adverse outcomes after pediatric pyeloplasty: A retrospective cohort study.

To identify the risk factors for adverse outcomes after pediatric pyeloplasty. We conducted a retrospective review of all children under the age of 14 years who underwent primary pyeloplasty for unilateral ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction at a single teaching hospital in Tunisia between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2022. A total of 103 patients were included. Median age of patients at surgery was 27 months (interquartile range [IQR], 13-44). On ultrasound, median renal pelvic anteroposterior diameter was 3.2 cm (IQR, 2.3-4), and the median renal cortex thickness (RCT) was 2.5 mm (IQR, 2-3.5). Median differential renal function (DRF) on preoperative radionuclide renal scan was 40% (IQR, 30-46). Postoperative adverse outcomes occurred in 28 patients (27.2%). These included 19 cases of urinary tract infections (UTIs), 11 cases of UPJ restenosis, four cases of UPJ leakage, two cases of urinoma, and two cases of diversion-related complications. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed two factors significantly and independently related to postoperative negative outcomes: RCT <3 mm and DRF > 50%. Our study demonstrated that preoperative RCT on ultrasound of less than 3 mm and preoperative DRF on radionuclide renal scan of more than 50% were independent risk factors for adverse outcomes following pediatric pyeloplasty. These factors could be of interest in identifying, early on, patients who will develop postoperative negative outcomes, giving them more attention and support, and explaining the prognosis to the patient and family.

Does prophylactic antibiotics post pediatric pyeloplasty reduce the incidence of febrile UTIs?

PurposeThe use of postoperative prophylactic antibiotics in pediatric upper urinary tract reconstruction remains controversial. In this study, we examined whether low dose antibiotics administered following pediatric pyeloplasty reduce the incidence of febrile urinary tract infections at our institution. As a secondary outcome, in those patients with infection, additional analysis was performed to better quantify which patient population benefits the most from low dose prophylactic antibiotics.MethodsInstitutional review board approval (IRB) was obtained. All methods were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. A retrospective study was performed in patients who underwent pyeloplasty (2011–2017) at our institution. Surgical approach (laparoscopic versus robotic assisted versus open, with or without internal JJ ureteral stent) were based on surgeon preference. Patients of 8 fellowship trained pediatric urologists were included in the study period. Patients with prior history of urologic interventions or other congenital genitourinary tract abnormalities were excluded. Demographics (age, gender, ethnicity, insurance status), prior history of culture proven urinary tract infection, surgical details (administration of perioperative antibiotics), and postoperative outcomes including; 1) re-admission 30 days post-surgery, 2) any urine cultures collected due to suspected urinary tract infection.ResultsA total of 209 patients (149 boys, 60 girls) met our inclusion criteria with 55/209 (26%) receiving postoperative prophylactic antibiotics. The average age was 6 years (range: 2 months-18 years). Indwelling ureteral stent was used in 176 (84%) patients. Eleven patients (5%) had a culture-proven urinary tract infection within 30-days postoperatively. No significant differences were seen in postoperative complications or incidence of urinary tract infection when comparing surgical approaches, +/- ureteral stent, or the use of antibiotics. Secondary analysis noted statistically significant increase in post-operative urinary tract infection in younger children (2.8 v. 6.2 years, p = 0.02), those patients who had a positive preoperative urine culture (8/11, p = 0.01) and those with public health insurance (p = 0.038).ConclusionThe incidence of postoperative urinary tract infection following pyeloplasty in our cohort was relatively low. There was a higher incidence of urinary tract infection in patients less than 3 years old. The use of antibiotics in patients post pyeloplasty did not appear to affect the incidence of post-operative urinary tract infection, however, they may have a role in children who have not yet potty trained and in patients with positive preoperative urine culture.

Enhanced recovery management in pediatric pyeloplasty: outcomes in a single institution and tips for improvement.

We report the application of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) regimens to pediatric patients undergoing laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP), aiming to guide the practice of ERAS in pediatric LP. From October 2018, we prospectively implemented a twenty-point ERAS regimen, including a modified LP procedure, for pediatric UPJO patients in a single institution. Data from 2018 to 2021 were collected and analyzed retrospectively. The variables gathered included: demographics, preoperative details and recovery elements. Outcomes were postoperative length of stay (POS), readmission rate, operation time and blood loss. A total of 75 pediatric patients (0-14years) were included. The mean POS was 2.4 ± 1.4days, shorter than that in recent studies in China (3.3 ± 1.4days, 6 (3-16) days). None were redo, and six restenosis (8%) were improved after treatment with ureteral balloon dilatation. The mean operation time was 257.9 ± 54.4min, and blood loss was 11.8 ± 10.0ml. In the univariable analysis and multivariable analysis, no external drainage, sacral anesthesia, and withdrawal of the catheter on day one were independently associated with a POS of ≤ 2 d (p < 0.05). The implementation of this ERAS protocol for pediatric LP has resulted in a shorter length of stay without a higher readmission rate. Surgery techniques, drainage management and analgesia are the key to further improvement. ERAS for pediatric pyeloplasty should be encouraged.

Evaluating the safety of same-day discharge following pediatric pyeloplasty and ureteral reimplantation; A NSQIP analysis 2012–2020

Same-day discharge (SDD) is a safe option for several adult urologic surgeries, benefiting patients and hospitals. By decreasing length of stay while maintaining patient safety, SDD is in-line with recent goals to provide high value care while minimizing costs. Literature on SDD in the pediatric population, however, is scarce, and no study has identified the efficacy of SDD for pediatric pyeloplasty (PP) and ureteral reimplantation (UR). The aim of this study was to identify trends in the usage of SDD as well as its efficacy and safety based on surgical outcomes for pediatric PP and UR. The 2012-2020 files of the American College of Surgeon's National Surgical Quality Improvement Project pediatric database were queried for PP and UR. Patients were stratified as SDD or standard-length discharge (SLD). Trends in SDD usage, differences in baseline characteristics, surgical approach, and surgical outcomes including 30-day readmission, complication, and reoperation rates were analyzed between SDD and SLD groups. 8213PP (SDD: 202 [2.46%]) and 10,866 UR (469 [4.32%]) were included in analysis. There were no significant changes in SDD rates between 2012 and 2020, averaging 2.39% (PP), and 4.39% (UR). For both procedures, SDD was associated with higher rates of open versus minimally invasive (MIS) surgical approach and with shorter operative and anesthesia durations. For PP, there were no differences in readmission, complication, or reoperation rates in the SDD group. For UR, there was a 1.69% increase in CD I/II complications in those receiving SDD, correlating to 1.96-fold higher odds of CD I/II in all SDD patients compared to SLD patients. These results suggest that while the rate of SDD has not increased in recent years, the current screening methods for SDD have been generally effective in maintaining the safety of SDD for pediatric procedures. Though SDD for UR did show a very small increase in minor complications, this may be due to less strict screening protocols, and may be alleviated via MIS surgical approach. While this is the first paper to investigate SDD for pediatric urology procedures, these results are similar to those found for adult procedures. This study is limited by the lack of clinical data reported in the database. SDD is a generally safe option for pediatric PP and UR, and further research should identify proper screening protocols to continue to allow for safe SDD.

What to expect on the long-term follow-up of pediatric pyeloplasty?: Critical time intervals and risk factors

What to expect on the long-term follow-up of pediatric pyeloplasty?: Critical time intervals and risk factors

The application of artificial technology in pediatric pyeloplasty the efficacy analysis of robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty in the treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction.

To investigate the clinical effect of the da Vinci robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloureteroplasty (RALP) in treating pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). We retrospectively analyzed clinical data from 32 children with UPJO who suffered from RALP in our hospital from October 2020 to February 2023, compared with those treated with common laparoscopy at the same time. After the establishment of the robotic arm, a mesenteric approach was performed after entering the abdominal cavity to focus on the lesion site. The dilated renal pelvis was then cut and the stenotic ureter was removed; the anastomosis and the incision were sutured by layer. A total of 62 children (44 boys and 20 girls) with a median age of 14 months (ranging from 3 to 38 months) were included. All 62 cases had hydronephrosis caused by unilateral UPJO, and the surgery was successfully completed without conversion to open. All intraoperative blood losses amounted to less than 10 ml. In the RALP group, the average operative duration was 131.28 min (ranging from 108 to 180 min). The average catheter time was 3.66 days (ranging from 2 to 7 days). The average hematuria time was 3.84 days (ranging from 2 to 6 days). The average postoperative hospital stay was 7.8 days (ranging from 6 to 12 days). The average hospitalization costs were 59,048.31 yuan (ranging from 50,484 to 69,977 yuan). The double-J tube was removed 1 month after surgery. Only one patient suffered from complications, developing a urinary tract infection 4 weeks after surgery, and was cured with the administration of oral cefaclor anti-inflammatory drugs for 3 days. All patients were followed up for 2-28 months, with a median follow-up time of 12 months. The thickness of the renal cortex was increased after surgery [(1.95 ± 0.24) vs. (4.82 ± 0.50)] cm, and the isotope renograms revealed a definite recovery of the split renal function [(28.32 ± 1.95) vs. (37.01 ± 2.71)]%. The robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloureteroplasty (RALP) in the treatment of children with upper ureteral obstruction has overall clinical efficiency. With technological advancements and an increased number of experienced surgeons, robotic surgery may become a new trend in surgery.

A Retrospective study to Analyze the Outcomes of Paediatric Pyeloplasty in Poorly Functioning Kidneys

Introduction: Pyeloplasty has success rate of up to 98%. We believe that paediatric pyeloplasty even in poorly functioning kidney, will result in maximum salvage of renal function. The aim of our study was to evaluate the outcome of pyeloplasty in poorly functioning kidneys with PUJO in the paediatric population. Methods: The children with PUJO with a GFR &lt; 30 ml / min or &lt; 30% differential function on DTPA, who underwent pyeloplasty in NU hospitals, Bengaluru over a period of 11 years 2 months, were included in our retrospective study. Anteroposterior diameters (APD) and parenchymal thickness (PT) were assessed at three months. After one year of surgery, they underwent DTPA. Outcomes analyzed were febrile UTI, the need for secondary procedures, structural and functional outcomes in operated kidneys till one year of follow-up. Results: A total of 30 patients with a mean age of four years ± 4 SD (standard deviation) with poor function on DTPA renogram (&lt; 30%) were included in the study. 10 patients (33.33%) had a differential renal function (DRF) of 15% or less. Pre - operative mean PT was 4.7mm, mean APD was 38.5 mm, mean DRF was 19.3% and mean GFR was 17.7 ml / min. PT was increased to 6.4mm (± 2.4SD) and APD reduced to a 16.7 mm (± 10 SD) at the end of three months (p &lt; 0.001). Increment in DRF percentage was 33.2 (± 9.4 SD) and GFR was 33.9 (± 12.5 SD) at the end of one year (p &lt; 0.001). 13.3% of the patients had UTI, none of the study subjects required re-intervention within one year. Conclusions: The pyeloplasty for pediatric PUJO significantly improved the functional outcomes even in poorly functioning kidney, hence we recommend the pyeloplasty for selected pediatric cases of poorly functioning kidney with PUJO.

Learning Curves in Pediatric Robot-Assisted Pyeloplasty: A Systematic Review.

Background: Robot-assisted surgery demands a specific skillset of surgical knowledge, skills, and attitudes from the robotic surgeon to function as part of the robotic team and for maximal utility of the assistive surgical robot. Subsequently, the learning process of robot-assisted surgery entails new modes of learning. We sought to systematically summarize the published data on pediatric robot-assisted pyeloplasty (pRALP) to decipher the learning process by analyzing learning curves. Methods: This review followed the PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were systematically searched for 'learning curve' AND 'pediatric pyeloplasty'. All studies presenting outcomes of learning curves (LC) in the context of pRALP in patients &lt; 18 years of age were included. Studies comparing LC in pRALP versus open and/or laparoscopic pyeloplasty were also included; however, those solely focusing on LC in non-robotic approaches were excluded. The methodological quality was assessed using the Newcastle and Ottawa scale. Results: Competency was non-uniformly defined in all fifteen studies addressing learning curves in pRALP. pRALP was considered safe at all stages. Proficiency in pRALP was reached after 18 cases, while competency was estimated to demand 31 operated cases with operative duration as outcome variable. Conclusions: Pediatric RALP is safe during the learning process and 'learning by doing' improves efficiency. Competencies with broader implications than time must be defined for future studies.

The opportunities and cautions of cumulative sum analysis in assessing learning curves in pediatric urology

In this issue of the Journal of Pediatric Urology, Stern et al. present on an experienced laparoscopic surgeon's experience in adopting the robotic-assisted platform for pediatric pyeloplasty [1]. This manuscript can be read at multiple levels. First, the authors nicely demonstrate both overall and task-specific learning curves for surgeons adapting the robotic technique. While the robotic platform has already saturated many marketplaces, this is relevant work for those areas where the surgical robot still represents an emerging opportunity.

Efficacy of Open Anderson-Hynes Pyleloplasty in Congenital Unilateral Uretero-Pelvic Junction Obstruction in Term of GFR in Children

Objective: To determine the efficacy of Open Anderson-Hynes pyeloplasty in unilateral congenital UPJO in terms of GFR, free drainage of urine from the pelvis to the ureter and symptomatic improvement in children aged 5 to 15 years. Keywords: Pyeloplasty, Anderson-Hynes, Pediatric Pyeloplasty, Uretero-Pelvic Junction Obstruction

Comparison of external stents and DJ stents techniques for pediatric pyeloplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

ObjectiveTo evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety between an external stent and a Double J stent for pediatric Pyeloplasty.MethodsThrough a systematical search of multiple scientific databases in July 2022, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the primary outcomes of interest according to the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), whose protocol was registered with PROSPERO(CRD42021274087).ResultsEleven studies involving 1,758 patients were included. No significant differences were observed in operative time (MD: 2.26; 95% CI −9.62 to 14.14; P = 0.79), operative success rate (OR: 1.10; 95% CI 0.57 to 2.10; P = 0.780), length of hospital stay (MD: 0.65; 95% CI −0.04 to 1.34; P = 0.063), or complications (OR: 0.87; 95%CI 0.48 to 1.56; P = 0.630) between external stents and DJ stents in pediatric pyeloplasty. According to the subgroup analysis, we found the external stent group had a shorter operative time than the DJ stent group in terms of robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (MD: −17.13; 95% CI −32.8 to −1.45; P = 0.032).ConclusionsThere were no significant differences in operative time, operative success rate, length of hospital stay, or complications between external stents and DJ stents in pediatric pyeloplasty. The external stented procedure seemed to have less operative time when using robot-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty. However, due to the limitations of our analysis, more studies are still required to support our conclusion.Systematic review registrationThis systematic review has been registered on PROSPERO, the registration ID is CRD42021274087.

Ultrasonographic stabilization of hydronephrosis after pyeloplasty: Key determinant of postoperative follow-up?

Although more than 1500 pediatric pyeloplasties are performed in the United States per year, there is a lack of consensus on the adequate imaging modality and timing of follow-up after surgery. The aim of this study is to evaluate if ultrasonographic stabilization in the grade of hydronephrosis after pyeloplasty is an adequate parameter to define the optimal length of follow-up after surgery and to detect failed procedures. Secondarily, we want to analyze clinical variables that could impact ultrasonographic stabilization. This is a retrospective chart review of patients who underwent pyeloplasty between 2012 and 2020. Patients were included if they were ≤21 years-old at the time of surgery, had pre and postoperative renal-ultrasounds, had ≥3 months of postoperative follow-up, and had met the criteria for ultrasonographic stabilization after surgery. Ultrasonographic stabilization was defined as 2 consecutive ultrasounds after pyeloplasty, a minimum of 1-month apart, with the same degree of hydronephrosis according to the Society for Fetal Urology (SFU) grading system. Data concerning clinical, surgical, and postoperative variables were collected. A total of 143 pyeloplasties met the inclusion criteria. Median age at surgery was 10.5 months with a median post-operative follow-up time of 29 months. Ultrasonographic stabilization was achieved in a mean time of 14.5 months post-operatively. Compared to the preoperative US SFU grade, at ultrasonographic stabilization 127 (88.9%) patients had an improvement of ≥1 grades of hydronephrosis. There were 9 pyeloplasty failures that were diagnosed and surgically corrected in a median of 7.5 months after the initial surgery. No clinical or surgical variables were associated with time to achieve ultrasonographic stabilization. There is great variability in the length of follow-up after pyeloplasty, ranging from 3-months to 7-years. In our cohort, the bast majority of patients had achieved ultrasonographic stabilization and displayed improvement in their initial grade of hydronephrosis by 14.5 months after surgery. Timeframe in which surgical failures were diagnosed and corrected. There were not clinical or surgical variables associated to time to achieve stabilization. Similar results have been reported in the literature; however, most of them have evaluated as their main outcome resolution and not stabilization of hydronephrosis. Ultrasonographic stabilization is a suitable and non-invasive parameter for determining the length of follow-up after unilateral pyeloplasty, as it is an adequate timeframe for identifying failed pyeloplasties, observing improvement or stabilization of hydronephrosis, and performing any additional procedure required after the primary repair.

A cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis studying operative times and complications for a surgeon transitioning from laparoscopic to robot-assisted pediatric pyeloplasty: Defining proficiency and competency

The transition from laparoscopic to robot-assisted procedures leads to potential increase in operative times and health care costs. Cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis can objectively study the learning curve to detect significant changes in operative timing and monitor complication rates. The objective of this study is to investigate the total and step-specific times for pediatric robot-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) to investigate the learning curve of a single surgeon transitioning from laparoscopic to RAP. This prospective cohort study included 50 consecutive RAP procedures performed since the inception of our robotic program from June 2013 to January 2019. The CUSUM of RAP total operative time (OT) was calculated to determine the breakpoints between learning phases using piecewise linear regression. Cumulative-observed-minus-expected failure chart with 80% and 95% reassurance boundary lines was constructed using 5% acceptable and 10% unacceptable complication rates. Step-specific operative times were prospectively recorded by an independent observer for port placement, dissection and hitch stitch placement, pelvis dismemberment and spatulation, suturing and port removal. Piecewise linear regression for OT identified breakpoints at case 13 and 29 suggesting transition at these points between Learning to Proficiency, and Proficiency to Competency. The overall mean OT was 142.2±46.0min. There was a significant difference in the mean OT between Learning (203.9±35.3min, the initial 13 cases), Proficiency (159.2±18.6min, the middle 16 cases), and Competency (126.6±19.7min, the last 21 cases) phases (p<0.001). The complication rate for RAP stabilized around the acceptable level of 5% up to case 41 before finalizing at 8% overall. The step-specific analysis suggested that suturing entered the Competency phase at case 27, with a 50% decrease in suturing time from Learning to Proficiency and Competency. Our study suggests that by case 30 a surgeon transitioning to RAP can achieve a significant decrease in OT. Complication rates remained within acceptable limits throughout, indicating that RAP can be safely adopted, even in low volume RAP centres. Suturing competency seems to be a significant advantage of the robotic platform as suggested by early significant decrease in suturing times noted between the Learning and Proficiency phases. Future studies can confirm these findings and establish reference operative times to aid surgeons and trainees transitioning from laparoscopic pyeloplasty to RAP. Moreover, total OT decreases significantly and relatively soon after transition to RAP.

WITHDRAWN: Recurrent UPJ obstruction following paediatric pyeloplasty is associated with an initial

To determine the risk factors that affect surgical outcomes for pediatric pyeloplasty, and whether this may be related to the choice of operative approach. A retrospective cohort study was performed to evaluate clinicodemographic and operative characteristics of children undergoing dismemberment pyeloplasty by 2 senior pediatric urologists in our tertiary institution between Jan 2008 - Dec 2017. Outcomes included overall complications, re-stenosis, and revision pyeloplasty based on clinic-radiological parameters. Bivariate analysis with Chi-square and Mann-Whitney U test followed by multivariate logistic regression with backward likelihood analysis determined an adjusted effect estimate of the identified significant indicators for inferior peri-operative outcomes related to management. A total of 185 (93 open, 92 Laparoscopic) cases with an average follow-up of 31.3±27.4 months were analyzed. Complications occurred in 21 (11.4%) patients. 12 (6.5%) experienced recurrent UPJ obstruction with 10 (5.4%) undergoing redo-pyeloplasty. Of these, 9 were performed open and 1 laparoscopically. Multivariate logistic regression identified open pyeloplasty as an independent predictor for overall complications (HR 3.29, 95%CI 1.14, 9.51), recurrent UPJ obstruction (HR 49.8, 95%CI 3.09, 803.2) and redo-pyeloplasty (HR 9.75, 95%CI 1.21, 78.6) compared to a laparoscopic approach. Missed crossing vessels were identified in seven redo-cases, which all were from prior open pyeloplasty. An initial open approach was identified as an independent predictor of future complications due to a higher incidence missed crossing vessels at initial repair. Surgeons need to remain especially mindful of this phenomenon when working in a confined open field.

PD48-07 PEDIATRIC PYELOPLASTY AND PERIOPERATIVE URETHRAL CATHETER : WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 May 2022PD48-07 PEDIATRIC PYELOPLASTY AND PERIOPERATIVE URETHRAL CATHETER : WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Maria Camila Suarez, Sirpi Nackeeran, Daniel E. Nassau, Alireza Alam, Rafael Gosalbez, and Miguel Castellan Maria Camila SuarezMaria Camila Suarez More articles by this author , Sirpi NackeeranSirpi Nackeeran More articles by this author , Daniel E. NassauDaniel E. Nassau More articles by this author , Alireza AlamAlireza Alam More articles by this author , Rafael GosalbezRafael Gosalbez More articles by this author , and Miguel CastellanMiguel Castellan More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002616.07AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: It is a common practice to place an indwelling ureteral stent and urethral catheter after pediatric pyeloplasty. The foley is routinely removed on post-operative day (POD) 1; however, even with a limited indwelling time, it can increase the risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). Despite the short duration use of urethral catheters, it is unknown if they can be safely omitted during pyeloplasty. We recently discontinued perioperative foley use during pyeloplasty and aimed to compare the safety profile and outcomes of our early experience to a cohort of patients who had foley placement during pyeloplasty. METHODS: Our prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent pyeloplasty without use of a foley catheter from 2019-2021 was queried. Retrospective chart review was done from 2012-2020 of patients who underwent pyeloplasty with foley placement. Patients were excluded if they were >21 years of age. Indwelling ureteral stents with or without a string were placed in all patients either retrograde via cystoscopy immediately prior to the procedure or antegrade during the ureteropelvic junction reconstruction. Statistically significant differences between patients with and without foley were assessed using chi-squared tests, t-tests, Fischer’s exact and Wilcoxon Rank-Sum; where alpha=0.05. RESULTS: A total of 149 patients with (group A) and 51 patients without (group B) foley placement were included in the study. Comparison of clinical variables among groups is shown in Table 1. The mean operative time, POD of hospital discharge, and time of stent indwelling were statistically significant higher in group A than group B. Stent was removed in the office in 4% of group A and 43% of group B, in all other cases it was removed in the operating room cystoscopically and under general anesthesia. The incidence of UTI during the first 30 POD was higher in group A than group B (4.6% vs 2%), however it was not statistically significant (p=.25). Lower urinary symptoms in the first 30 POD also presented more frequently in group A (6%) than group B (0%) with p=0.08. Only 4% of group A required a redo-procedure; till the date none of the patients of group B had required a redo-pyeloplasty. CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric pyeloplasty without foley placement showed a favorable safety profile with durable post-operative outcomes across a wide range of clinical variables. “Foley-less” pyeloplasty had benefits beyond a low incidence of UTIs, including shorter operative time and days from discharge, and increasing the frequency of ureteral stents left on a string, negating the need for cystoscopic stent removal under general anesthesia. Source of Funding: None © 2022 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 207Issue Supplement 5May 2022Page: e801 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2022 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Maria Camila Suarez More articles by this author Sirpi Nackeeran More articles by this author Daniel E. Nassau More articles by this author Alireza Alam More articles by this author Rafael Gosalbez More articles by this author Miguel Castellan More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF DownloadLoading ...

Retrograde stent with external string for pediatric robotic pyeloplasty: does it reduce cost and complications?

Robotic-assisted pyeloplasty (RAP) is a mainstay in the treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children. At our institution, to limit planned operating rooms visits we have placed a ureteral stent with an external string (SWES) immediately prior to RAP. In this study, we sought to quantify the operative time, complications, and costs associated with this approach compared to the traditional approach, requiring subsequent stent removal in the operating room. We hypothesized the SWES cohort would have decreased cost, yet with similar operative time and complications. We retrospectively collected all RAPs performed at our institution using the SWES approach (Aug 2012-July 2017). We excluded those with a redo pyeloplasty, and/or a percutaneous nephrostomy tube for post-operative drainage. We collected 30-day costs linked to the patients' MRN using the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) database. We compared 30-day healthare costs for all patients following RAP. We compared our SWES group to a national cohort of all pediatric RAP during the same time period. Lastly, we sent an anonymous, electronic survey to urologists of all PHIS institutions to identify the predominant postoperative drainage, nationally. Within our institution, we reviewed all those treated with SWES (n = 85) (Table 1). The median 30-day cost was $10,548 among those with SWES (Table 2). This was significantly less than the overall, national cohort of all pediatric RAP during the same period ($14,119, p < 0.001). There was a 15.5 % rate of unplanned return to the hospital in the SWES group. Of those unplanned returns, 8.2 % (7/85) had unplanned return for a procedure (3 for unplanned stent removal, 2 for nephrostomy tube for persistent obstruction, 1 for omental hernia, and 1 for stent replacement). With a 42.5 % (37/87) response rate, our nationwide survey found 84.6 % primarily leave stents WITHOUT a string, 7.7 % left nephrostomy tubes, and 7.7 % stents with strings. During pediatric RAP, placement of a SWES takes little time, carries a risk of unplanned visit to the operating room, saves the patient a certain, second anesthetic for stent removal, and amounts to a cost savings of approximately 25 %.