Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction Research Articles

Doppler Ultrasound and Resistive Indices in the Diagnosis of Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction in the Pediatric Population.

Mercapto acetyl tri-glycine renogram (MAG3) scan has been the gold standard assessment of pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) but requires intravenous access and radiation exposure. While Doppler ultrasound measurements of resistive indices (RI) of the arcuate arteries have been proposed as an alternative assessment of obstruction, they have not been widely adopted in the pediatric population. We hypothesized that RI of the main renal artery (RA) is more strongly correlated with MAG3 findings than arcuate RI. Pediatric patients with unilateral Society for Fetal Urology grade 3-4 hydronephrosis undergoing concomitant RUS and MAG3 were recruited. Doppler ultrasound peak systolic velocity (PSV); RI of bilateral RA at the origin, middle, and hilum; and RI of the superior, middle, and lower pole arcuate arteries were obtained. MAG3 differential renal function (DRF) and T½ were recorded. Differences in RI measurements (DRI) between the affected and normal kidney were calculated and compared with DRF and T½. 31 patients (median 4.6-month-old) were enrolled. Only RA RI at the origin differed between affected and normal kidneys (p < .001). DRI RA at the origin showed weak evidence for an association with MAG3 DRF < 40% (p .07). DRI was not associated with T½ > 20 minutes. There was weak evidence for an association between RA DRI at the origin and DRF but not with T½. These findings suggest that RA DRI may provide additional data in the evaluation of patients with UPJO to tailor the use of MAG3 and associated risk of radiation exposure to those patients most at risk for concomitant renal function impairment.

Propensity score matched analysis of treatment outcomes in pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction: a comparison between horseshoe and non-horseshoe kidneys.

Pediatric hydronephrosis poses distinct challenges, particularly in cases involving horseshoe kidneys (HSK). This retrospective study compares treatment outcomes between HSK and non-horseshoe kidneys (NHSK) in pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) patients. A retrospective cohort study included 35 patients with HSK and 790 patients with NHSK undergoing pyeloplasty. Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative parameters were evaluated. Propensity score matching (PSM) balanced patient characteristics in the NHSK group. In comparison with NHSK, HSK exhibited a higher crossing vessel incidence (51.6% vs. 5.12%, P < 0.001) and smaller preoperative anteroposterior pelvic diameter (APD). Post 6 and 12months, NHSK maintained a larger APD, with a higher P/C ratio at 12months. PSM retained significantly higher crossing vessel incidence in HSK (51.6 vs. 3.61%, P < 0.001). Laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) in HSK showed lower postoperative length of stay (LOS). Postoperative ultrasound parameters favored NHSK. In HSK and NHSK with crossing vessels, HSK demonstrated higher complications even post-PSM (38.5% vs. 0%, P = 0.039). The study emphasizes the importance of recognizing crossing vessels in HSK-related hydronephrosis. Surgical success, although comparable between HSK and NHSK, requires tailored approaches. This investigation contributes valuable insights to pediatric urology, emphasizing personalized management for optimal outcomes.

Comparison of robotic-assisted single-incision-plus-one-port laparoscopic pyeloplasty and single-incision laparoscopic pyeloplasty in the treatment of pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction

Objective: To compare the efficacy of robotic-assisted single-incision-plus- one-port laparoscopic pyeloplasty (R-SILP+1) with single-incision laparoscopic pyeloplasty (SILP) in pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). Methods: The clinical data of 47 children with UPJO who underwent surgery from October 2020 to September 2022 in the Department of Pediatric Surgery of Fujian Provincial Hospital were retrospectively analyzed. According to the surgical method chosen by parents, the children were divided into R-SILP+1 group and SILP group. Baseline data, operative time, intraoperative anastomosis time, volume of blood loss, postoperative hospitalization time, complications, total costs, preoperative and postoperative renal parenchymal thickness (PT), anterior posterior diameter of renal pelvis (APD), and differential renal function (DRF) before and after operation were compared between the two groups, and the clinical efficacy of the two kinds of operation was evaluated. Results: Among the 47 children, 27 were in R-SILP+1 group, including 16 males and 11 females, aged (6.6±3.5) years; 20 were in SILP group, including 12 males and 8 females, aged (6.5±3.5) years. The operations were successful in both groups without conversion to open operation. There were no significant differences between the two groups in baseline data, volume of blood loss, complications, APD and PT at postoperative 6 months, APD, PT and DRF at postoperative 12 months (all P>0.05). Compared with the SILP group, the operative time [(153.0±14.4) vs (189.9±32.6) minutes, P<0.001], intraoperative anastomosis time [(68.8±16.8) vs (97.5±12.0) minutes, P<0.001], postoperative hospitalization time [(6.0±1.3) vs (9.0±1.3) d, P<0.001] were shorter, but the total cost was higher[(57 390±7 664) vs (30 183±4 219) yuan RMB, P<0.001]. Conclusions: Compared with the SILP group, R-SILP+1 can achieve considerable efficacy in treating pediatric UPJO, and has certain advantages in shortening operative time, intraoperative anastomosis time, and postoperative hospitalization time. However, the cost is high.

Double J stent combined with pyelostomy tube in pediatric laparoscopic pyeloplasty: a 5-year clinical experience in a single center

ObjectiveTo compare the outcome of using a double J (DJ) stent combined with pyelostomy tube with a DJ stent alone in laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) for pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO).MethodsA retrospective review of all patients with UPJO treated with LP between January 2017 and November 2021 was conducted in our center. According to different postoperative drainage methods patients were divided into a DJ stent group (52 cases) and a DJ stent combined with pyelostomy tube group (combination group, 41 cases). Operative time, bleeding volume, perirenal drainage stent removal time, postoperative hospital stay, postoperative complications, and renal function recovery were compared between the two groups. Renal ultrasound and diuretic renogram (DR) were used for preoperative and postoperative follow-up.ResultsA total of 52 patients were in the DJ stent group and 41 patients in the combination group. The mean hospital stay was 6.46 ± 2.66 days in the DJ stent group and 5.22 ± 1.63 days in the combination group (p < 0.05). Postoperative complications developed in 14 out of 52 patients in the DJ stent group (26.9%), while complications developed in 8 out of 41 patients in the combination group (19.5%) (p > 0.05). Non-catheter-related complications developed in 10/52 patients in the DJ stent group (19.2%) and only 1/41 patients in the combination group (2.4%) (p < 0.05). The renal function and renal cortex thickness in both groups were improved.ConclusionBoth the DJ stent drainage and the DJ stent combined with pyelostomy drainage are safe and effective. We should fully consider the patient’s preoperative and intraoperative conditions and choose appropriate drainage methods. A DJ stent combined with pyelostomy tube can reduce non-catheter related complications, facilitate postoperative recovery, and the hospital stay was significantly shorter than the DJ stent group. However, it is necessary to pay attention to the nursing treatment of the pyelostomy tube and guard against the occurrence of pyelostomy tube shedding.

The efficacy of robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty for pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of robotic-assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty (RALP) for treating pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction through an extensive comparison of RALP, open pyeloplasty (OP) and laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP). We conducted a comprehensive search of the following databases: PubMed, Excerpta Medica Database, Cochrane Library, Web of Science database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WanFang Data, and China Biology Medical Disc. Baseline data were compared, the sources of heterogeneity were assessed, and publication biases were detected. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023415667). 26 studies with 6074 cases performing pyeloplasty were included, and the overall data are comparable. Our analysis showed no significant difference in success rate and postoperative complications between RALP and OP, and RALP is associated with a shorter length of stay (LOS) (MD - 1.00 95%CI - 1.45 to - 0.55, p < 0.0001). In addition, compared to LP, RALP was associated with a shorter anastomosis time (MD - 18.35 95%CI - 29.88 to - 6.82, p = 0.002) and fewer postoperative analgesics (MD - 0.09 95% CI - 0.18 to - 0.01, p = 0.03); however, RALP has a longer operative time (OT) (MD 52.39, 95% CI 39.75-65.03, p < 0.00001) and higher cost. The heterogeneity of OT may be influenced by factors, such as age and region, while the heterogeneity of LOS primarily stems from regional differences. No significant publication bias was detected. Our meta-analysis shows that RALP can be an alternative to OP and LP with a high success rate, minimal postoperative complications, and shorter LOS. In addition, RALP contributes to reduce anastomosis time and postoperative analgesic drugs. However, further well-designed, large-scale, randomized controlled trials with additional parameters are needed to conduct a more comprehensive analysis of heterogeneity.

A Comparative Study of the Modified Lateral Position of Javelin and the Conventional Position of Body in the Operation of Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction with Da Vinci Xi Platform

A Comparative Study of the Modified Lateral Position of Javelin and the Conventional Position of Body in the Operation of Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction with Da Vinci Xi Platform

Retroperitoneoscopic Pyeloplasty for Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction in Children: Value of Robotic Assistance

AimRetroperitoneal pyeloplasty (RP) for pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) performed using retroperitoneoscopy (retro-RP) or robotic assistance (robo-RP) were compared. MethodsAll subjects were Japanese, matched for age, weight, and RP diameters. All RP were performed in the lateral decubitus position at a single institute by the same team using identical protocols. Five independent surgeons were asked to score intraoperative video recordings for perceived difficulty of suturing (DOS; 5 = impossible; 4 = difficult; 3 = tedious; 2 = slow; 1 = easy) and rank RP as +1 if robo-RP appeared to be superior, 0 if they appeared to be the same, and −1 if robo-RP appeared to be inferior. ResultsRobo-RP performed 2018-2022 (n = 22) were matched with retro-RP performed 2011-2019 (n = 34). Mean overall operative times were similar (robo-RP: 305.2 ± 57.8 min versus retro-RP: 340.0 ± 117.9 min; p = 0.19), but securing the larger retroperitoneal space required for robo-RP took significantly longer; 50.8 ± 13.9 min versus 24.3 ± 9.6 min; p < 0.0001. Total anastomotic time (TAT) and TAT per suture were both significantly shorter for robo-RP (p < 0.0001). The coefficient of variation for time taken to place one suture was smaller for robo-RP than for retro-RP. DOS was lower for robo-RP with less variance (p < 0.01). Robo-RP had shorter drainage tube insertion, ambulated quicker postoperatively, and shorter hospitalization. Retro-RP had anastomotic complications; leaks (n = 2) and strictures (n = 2, requiring conventional open re-pyeloplasty). Robo-RP had no anastomotic complications and was ranked +1 unanimously. ConclusionsThe RP anastomosis was quicker with less complications and more precise with robotic assistance in matched patients under similar circumstances. Should RP be indicated, robo-RP is recommended. Level of evidenceIII.

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.

Our experience of operated pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction patients.

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) may originate from extrinsic or intrinsic causes in children. The aim of this study is to present preoperative and postoperative data of our patients operated for UPJO. A total of 64 patients who underwent open pyeloplasty were investigated retrospectively. They were evaluated in terms of demographically, clinics, hydronephrosis, differential renal functions (DRFs), half-time tracer clearance (½TC), and histopathologic results. Patients' numerical results were stated as mean ± standard deviation (SD). Male gender was more prevalent (n = 47, 73.4%) and mean age at surgery was 46.87 months. UPJO was located at the left side in 56.3% (n = 36), and at the right side in 39.1% (n = 25) of patients. It was bilateral in 4.7% (n = 3). Hydronephrosis was found antenatally in 68.8% (n = 44) of patients. The mean preoperative DRF was 49.7% (21-78%) and mean postoperative DRF was 49.2% (20-56%). Mean renal scintigraphic t1/2 was >20 min for all patients. The mean AP diameter was 21.58 mm (10-62 mm). Muscular hypertrophy was the most common pathological finding, mean length of excised segment was 10.26 mm (3-40 mm). Crossing vessel (CV) was detected in 17.18% (n = 11). The CV was statistically associated with increased age of operation, left side, and female gender. Statistically significant hydronephrosis was found in non-CV patients. Re-operation was required in seven patients (7.8%). Intrinsic pathologies are more seen in the etiology of UPJO patients with antenatal diagnosis and this group needs operation at an earlier age. However, CV is found more commonly in patients who are diagnosed and operated at older ages.

Renal Cortical Thickness After Pyeloplasty in Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction.

PurposeThe main goal of pyeloplasty is to maintain or improve renal function. Diuretic renography is the gold standard for evaluating renal function after pyeloplasty. Renal ultrasonography (RUS) is commonly used to determine hydronephrosis in pediatric patients. We hypothesized that the change in the renal parenchymal cortex would predict pyeloplasty success. In this study, we aim to measure renal cortical thickness change after pyeloplasty in ureteropelvic junction obstruction patients.Materials and MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 38 patients who underwent pyeloplasty between 2005 and 2019. We divided patients into three age groups and compared the difference of renal parenchymal thickness change by using generalized estimating equations to identify associated factors for renal cortical thickness change after pyeloplasty.ResultsThirty-nine kidney units were identified. The median age at the time of surgery was 41.61±40.99 months. Generalized estimating equations showed significant change of renal parenchymal thickness over the period of follow-up (p=0.02). The estimate of thickness change was 0.0373 mm/month. Age at the time of surgery was not associated with significant renal cortical thickness over the period of follow-up. The positive predictive factors for renal cortical thickness were creatinine clearance, pre-operative anteroposterior diameter and pre-operative renal differential function. The negative factors for decrease of renal cortical thickness were body weight, presentation with abdominal mass, and history of infection.ConclusionRenal cortical thickness after pyeloplasty was improved over the period of follow-up. Age at surgery was not associated with improvement of renal parenchymal thickness.

Evolving trends in peri-operative management of pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction: working towards quicker recovery and day surgery pyeloplasty.

To describe the evolution of practice patterns for pediatric pyeloplasty and determine how these changes have impacted length of stay (LOS), reoperation rates and return emergency department (ER) visits. We reviewed our pyeloplasty database from 2008 to 2020 at a quaternary pediatric referral center and we included children 0-18years undergoing pyeloplasty. Variables captured included: age, sex, baseline and follow-up anteroposterior diameter (APD) and differential renal function (DRF). We also collected data on the use of drains, catheters and/or stents, nausea and vomiting prophylaxis, opioids, regional anesthesia, and non-opioid analgesia. Outcomes were LOS, reoperation rates and ER visits. A total of 554 patients (565 kidneys) were included. Reoperation rate was 7%, redo rate 4% and ER visits 17%. There was a trend towards less opioids, indwelling catheters and internal stents and increasing non-opioid analgesia, externalized stents, and regional anesthesia during the study period. Same-day discharge (SDD) was possible for 88 (16%) children with no differences in reoperation or readmission rates between SDD and admitted (ADM). There was a difference in ER visits (21 [24%] vs. 26 [6%]; p = 0.04) for SDD vs. ADM, respectively. On multivariate analysis, the only predictor of ER visits was younger age. Patients < 7months were more likely to present to ER (15/41; 37% vs. 6/47, 13%; p = 0.009). Multivariate analysis determined indwelling catheters and opioids were associated with ADM while dexamethasone and ketorolac with SDD. Progressive changes in care have contributed to a shorter LOS and increasing rates of SDD for pyeloplasty patients. SDD appears to be feasible and does not result in higher complication rates. These data support the development of a pediatric pyeloplasty ERAS protocol to maximize quicker recovery and foster SDD as a goal.

Use of retrograde pyelogram to plan for miniature open incision in pediatric pyeloplasty

As robotic-assisted surgery becomes increasingly utilized for pediatric ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction, open surgeons have countered by using muscle-splitting, miniature (≤2cm) incisions. To prepare for this type of incision during pyeloplasty, it is necessary to define the exact location of the UPJ. The use of retrograde pyelogram (RPG) at the time of pyeloplasty helps the surgeon to identify the exact location of UPJ, and thus be able to use a muscle-splitting, miniature incision for open pyeloplasty. We hypothesize that when performing a muscle-splitting, miniature incision open approach; preoperative RPG frequently changes the traditional pyeloplasty flank incision at the tip of the 11th or 12th rib. A retrospective review of open pyeloplasties performed by a single surgeon at our institution from 7/1/2010 to 12/31/2018 was performed to determine rate of use of RPG, open pyeloplasty incision location and to determine what factors are predictive of incisional site. 114 of 122 (93.4%) patients with 115 renal units had pyeloplasties with preoperative RPG performed. Of the 8 procedures without RPG, two had a pelvic kidney diagnosed prior to surgery, two had narrow ureteric orifices that were difficult to cannulate, and four had associated reflux. In 31/115 (27%) pyeloplasties the incision was changed from a standard incision position at the 11th or 12th rib to an alternative incision (i.e. extended muscle-transecting incision at the tip of the 11th or 12th rib, or to an alternate incision site including Gibson, McBurney's incision, or low anterior abdominal incision). 84/115 (73.0%) had a miniature (<2cm) incision at the tip of the 11th or 12th rib. Grade IV hydronephrosis was a significant predictor for changing the traditional incision site (p=0.02). Preoperative nephrostomy tube insertion was also associated with an increased likelihood of having an alternate incision (p=0.04). Incision site was not significantly affected by age of the patient at surgery, patient sex, size of the affected kidney, T1/2 times of <30min, split function of <30%, kidney length differential, or laterality. The consistent use of RPG prior to pyeloplasty helps surgeons to plan for a small muscle-splitting, miniature open incisions. In our experience, 27% of pyeloplasties required alternative incision sites based on the results of pre-operative RPG.

Primary laparoscopic pyeloplasty in children: A single-center experience of 279 patients and analysis of possible factors affecting complications

Laparoscopic pyeloplasty (LP) has been widely used in the treatment of pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). However, no prior reports with a large pediatric series have focused on the analysis of complications and impact factors of the outcomes. We hypothesized there were risk factors of higher Clavien grade postoperative complications. To analyze the characteristics of complications and risk factors of high Clavien grade postoperative complications. All children with UPJO treated with primary transperitoneal LP between July 2016 and July 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. The Clavien complication grades in groups with different weight, intraoperative complication (drainage methods), anteroposterior pelvic diameters (APPD), side, gender, title of surgeon, preoperative presentation and obstruction reason were compared. Of the 279 children, intraoperative complications in which the placement of double-J stents was not accomplished and conversion to open surgery (Satava grade II) occurred in 17 (6.09%) and 2 (0.72%) patients, respectively. A total of 270 patients (277 kidneys) were included in the analysis of postoperative complications. Postoperative complications occurred in 51 (18.89%) patients. The most frequent postoperative incident was febrile UTI in 27 patients. Of the 13 patients who required reoperations, 6 patients had kidney restenosis and were considered as failure of surgery. All complications with an exact onset time occurred within 10 months after surgery. In the univariate and multivariate analysis, weight <10kg and having intraoperative complication with nephrostomy tube were risk factors of higher Clavien postoperative complication grade (P＜0.05). Patients who were <10kg in weight and having intraoperative complication with nephrostomy tube had a greater risk of a higher Clavien grade postoperative complication. To reduce high Clavien grade postoperative complications, asymptomatic patients under 10kg in weight and having intraoperative complication with nephrostomy tube need close monitoring. In the 26 patients who had an exact time of the postoperative complications, the longest time we found was 10 months. Thus, we recommend the follow-up time required to observe postoperative complications in patients should be at least 10 months after surgery. LP has been proven to be safe and effective in children with a low rate of complications. Weight <10kg and having intraoperative complications with nephrostomy tube were risk factors of higher Clavien grade postoperative complications. Children with low weight and intraoperative complications need more attention in terms of the occurrence of complications.

Impact of successful pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction surgery on urinary HIP/PAP and BD-1 levels

In the pediatric patient whose ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is not always symptomatic, imaging is the most common means of detecting surgical success. There is interest, however, in other means of post-operative monitoring. A panel of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) has been previously found to be elevated in UPJO, but the impact of surgical correction on these AMPs is unknown. To determine if elevated levels of candidate urinary AMP biomarkers of urinary tract obstruction decrease following UPJO repair. Pediatric patients undergoing surgical correction of an UPJO were recruited for participation. Bladder urine from uninfected consenting/assenting patients was collected immediately prior to surgery and then at least 6 months afterward. Based on prior studies demonstrating significant elevation of beta defensin 1 (BD-1), hepatocarcinoma-intestine-pancreas/pancreatitis-associated protein (HIP/PAP), cathelicidin (LL-37), and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in patients with UPJO versus control patients, we performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays on these four AMPs to compare their expression before and after surgical intervention. If found to significantly decrease, AMP levels were compared to healthy controls. AMP levels were normalized to urine creatinine. Results were analyzed with paired t test or Wilcoxon test using Graphpad software. Correlation was calculated using Pearson or Spearman correlation. A p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. 13 UPJO patients were included in this study; 9 were male (69%). Age at surgery was a median of 4.3 years (average 6.1, range 0.4-18.4 years). Follow-up urine samples were collected a median of 27.4 months after surgery (average 27.4; range 7.8-45.3 months). All 13 patients had clinical improvement and/or signs of improved hydronephrosis on post-operative imaging. HIP/PAP and BD-1 significantly decreased in post-surgical samples compared to pre-surgical samples (p=0.02 and 0.01, respectively); NGAL and LL-37 did not significantly change. Overall, HIP/PAP decreased in 12 patients (92%) and BD-1 decreased in 11 patients (85%). BD-1 levels after successful repair were not different from healthy controls (p=0.06). Urinary biomarkers of obstruction should detect significant obstructive pathology as well as reflect its resolution. This would enable their use in post-operative monitoring and augment current methods of determining successful surgical outcome through imaging. The AMPs HIP/PAP and BD-1 are significantly elevated in UPJO but then significantly decrease after pyeloplasty, with BD-1 returning to healthy control levels. As a result, these AMPs could serve as markers of successful surgical intervention.

Advances in robotic surgery for pediatric ureteropelvic junction obstruction and vesicoureteral reflux: history, present, and future.

The introduction of robotic surgical technology into urological reconstruction, particularly pediatrics, has introduced new horizons for reducing the morbidity and enhancing the efficacy of surgical repair of congenital conditions in children. In reviewing the evolution of pediatric urological applications of robotic surgery, we wanted to address the different levels of reported utilization of pyeloplasty and ureteral reimplantation as two of the most common procedures. Review of the published literature sought to explore the described variation in clinical application of these two common procedures, and the evolution of the practice over time. Reported outcomes suggest that variations in patient selection, the learning curve and in reporting of outcomes all contribute to the wide variation in utilization of pediatric robotic pyeloplasty and ureteral reimplantation. These technologies are demonstrating their potential as well as the challenges of use in children and there is a steady evolution of capability. Practitioners should be aware of both the possibilities as well as the risks of such new technology in the care of our patients. This requires thorough and open reporting of outcomes, the willingness to introduce change and integrate new findings into practice.

Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction: A Single Center Experience

Surgical Treatment of Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction: A Single Center Experience

Co-Existing Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction and Vesicoureteric Reflux: Prevalence and Implications.

Purpose:The purpose of this study is to ascertain the coexistence of ipsilateral vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) and to compare postpyeloplasty outcome in patients with and without associated VUR.Materials and Methods:Prospective study from 2014 to 2016 of consecutive children (n = 135) undergoing pyeloplasty. Data of patients without (Group 1) and with (Group 2) associated ipsilateral VUR were compared.Results:Thirty-five patients (25.9%) had ipsilateral VUR along with UPJO (Group 2). This group showed the following unique features: (1) Higher percentage of infants (31/35) compared to Group 1 (62/100) (P = 0.003) (2) VUR in the contralateral (normal) kidney in 21/35 (60%) cases and nil in Group 1 (3) Significantly less preoperative differential renal function in children above 1 year (P = 0.007) (4) Presence of renal scars (18 units) and pyelonephritic changes (6 units) in Group 2 at the 1-year follow-up dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scan. Both groups showed improvement in function 3 months after pyeloplasty with no statistically significant difference. Improvement in drainage on the renal scan was better in Group 1 at 3 months postoperative (P = 0.015) as well as between 3 months and 1-year follow-up (P = 0.052).Conclusion:The prevalence of VUR was 25.9% in this study and 33.3% in ≤1 year age group. There was a loss of function in delayed presenters with associated ipsilateral VUR. There was delayed drainage postpyeloplasty in patients with VUR. A preoperative voiding cystourethrogram should be done in children <1 year age before pyeloplasty so that associated VUR if detected can be concurrently managed along with pyeloplasty and preserve nephrons affected by the dual pathology.

Surgical validation of functional magnetic resonance urography in the study of ureteropelvic junction obstruction in a pediatric cohort

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is one of the most common urological diseases in children. The etiology can be intrinsic, extrinsic (crossing vessel[CV] or adhesions), or mixed. To date, ultrasonography and scintigraphy are considered gold-standard imaging techniques for the study of UPJO. Functional magnetic resonance urography (fMRU) combines anatomical and functional information and has been recently evaluated for the detection of CVs in UPJO. The objective of the study was to evaluate the concordance between fMRU and surgery in determining the etiology of UPJO and the presence of obstructing/non-obstructing CVs. Patients with unilateral hydronephrosis who underwent surgery after an fMRU were included in the sample. Surgical data regarding the etiology of UPJO were compared with radiological results. The etiology was divided into intrinsic, extrinsic due to CV, extrinsic due to adhesions, and mixed or cicatricial (postoperative). The concordance was calculated by means of the Cohen's kappa coefficient. The observed agreement between fMRU and surgical findings regarding the etiology and the presence of CV were 83.2% and 89.4%, respectively (with substantial Cohen's kappa coefficient). The sensitivity and specificity of fMRU were 0.84 and 0.93, respectively; the positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were 0.889 and 0.897, respectively. The observed agreement regarding the type of vessel was 88.3% with a Cohen's kappa coefficient of 0.787 (substantial). In children with hydronephrosis, it is very important for the surgeon to quantify the extent of dilation, define the etiology of the obstruction, and the presence or absence of CVs. fMRU is a 'one-stop-shop' technique which provides both anatomical and functional information showing a high concordance with surgical findings, avoiding radiation exposure. fMRU should be considered a valid imaging technique in the study of pediatric UPJO, as it provides the surgeon with important information regarding the etiology of the obstruction for the preoperative planning.

Laparoscopic-Assisted Extracorporeal Pyeloplasty: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Pediatric Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction

Background: Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is a common congenital anomaly in pediatrics that may require surgical intervention performed by open, laparoscopic-assisted, laparoscopic, or robotic-assisted fashion. Laparoscopic pyeloplasty hasn't become popular due to instrument or skill limitations. Laparoscopic-assisted pyeloplasty could be the first step towards a minimally invasive approach to UPJO in pediatrics. Methods: The current study was conducted on 60 infants with UPJO treated with either laparoscopic-assisted extracorporeal or open pyeloplasty. In our modified approach, the ureteropelvic junction was exposed and released laparoscopically and pulled out of the abdominal cavity and pyeloplasty was performed simply over a JJ stent. The second group was treated by conventional posterior lumbotomy approach. All patients were followed up after the operation at least for six months and the results were compared between the two groups. Results: Comparison of the pelvic anteroposterior diameter before and after the operation indicated a significant reduction after the operation in both groups. Diuretic scan after JJ catheter removal did not show signs of obstruction in almost all cases among both groups. Comparison of the postoperative complications revealed no significant differences between the two groups. The complication rate was also very low and almost the same in both groups. Conclusions: Full laparoscopic pyeloplasty demands advanced surgical skills and fine instruments, which made it time-consuming and less applicable widely. Laparoscopic-assisted pyeloplasty is more applicable while it showed acceptable results in the current study. The current approach is suggested as the first step toward MIS for UPJO in pediatrics.

Transumbilical multi-port laparoscopic pyeloplasty versus transumbilical single-site laparoscopic pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic junction obstruction in children: A retrospectively comparative study

Laparoscopic pyeloplasty has achieved good cosmetic and functional outcomes. Both transumbilical single-site and transumbilical multi-port approaches are currently being used. No comparison of transumbilical single-site laparoscopic pyeloplasty (TSLP) and transumbilical multi-port laparoscopic pyeloplasty (TMLP) has been reported in the literature. We present a retrospective comparison study to evaluate clinical outcomes of TSLP and TMLP for children with ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO). A retrospective study was carried out comparing TSLP and TMLP performed by a single surgeon between July 2012 and June 2014. The patient data of the two groups (90 in each group) were evaluated. All patients underwent urine analysis, ultrasonography, magnetic resonance urography, and diuretic renogram using 99Tc-diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid scan preoperative and postoperative follow-up. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 20.0 software package. DISCUSSION: To our knowledge, our series is the first report in the literature that compares the outcomes of TSLP and TMLP in children. Our study suggested that there were no significant differences in start of oral feeding, drain removal, hospital stay, postoperative renal pelvic anteroposterior diameter and differential renal function at 6 months, postoperative complications, and success rate between the two groups. It demonstrated that TMLP is as effective and safe as TSLP. Although the cosmetic result of the TSLP group is satisfactory, TMLP requires three 0.5-cm ports around the umbilicus and does not change the shape of the umbilicus. Hence, the cosmetic result of the TMLP group is better than that of the TSLP group. TSLP involves some technical challenges. However, TMLP facilitates the procedure and renders the operation easier. Our findings confirmed that the operative time of TMLP group is shorter than that in TSLP group, and also showed that TMLP is relatively easy to perform compared with TSLP. TMLP is a feasible and safe operation for pediatric UPJO. TMLP is shorter in operative time and has a better cosmetic result than TSLP. We propose TMLP as a more viable treatment option for pediatric UPJO.