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A growing body of evidence suggests that it is safe to ligate the ureter of poorly functioning renal moieties during renal transplantation. We present clinical outcomes and data on hydronephrosis progression in pediatric cases associated with ectopic ureters and obstructive ureteroceles.We prospectively collected data for 35 consecutive patients (23 females and 12 males) who underwent ureteral clipping between February 2011 and August 2016. Patients were divided into 4 groups consisting of 1) duplex system with ectopic ureter (45.7%), 2) duplex system with a large ureterocele (11.4%), 3) other duplex system (8.6%) and 4) single system kidneys (34.3%). Patients were followed for clinical outcomes and hydronephrosis trends. Comparisons included preoperative and postoperative anteroposterior diameter, maximal ureteral diameter and ureterocele size.Median age at surgery was 59 months (IQR 11 to 120, range 5 to 216). Median ± SD operative time was 108.9 ± 31.1 minutes (range 20 to 180) and median length of stay was 7.5 hours (IQR 6 to 19, range 5 to 336). Immediate resolution of urinary incontinence was observed in all 16 ectopic ureter cases. After a median ± SD followup of 20.8 ± 13.8 months (IQR 8.5 to 30, range 6 to 50) 97.2% of the patients remained asymptomatic. No significant differences were observed between initial and last anteroposterior diameter measurements except in group 1 (p = 0.001). All ureteroceles demonstrated a significant decrease in median ± SD size after clipping (from 2.7 ± 0.41 to 0.53 ± 0.92 cm, p = 0.003). Pyonephrosis developed in 1 patient, who underwent laparoscopic nephrectomy.Ureteral clipping appears to be a reasonable, safe and effective option for pediatric patients in the reported settings, with the potential to be simpler and quicker than extirpative or reconstructive procedures.

We evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance urography in children with suspected ectopic ureters and ureteroceles in duplex systems.A total of 14 children 4 weeks to 8 years old with a total of 18 duplex systems underwent magnetic resonance urography using a 1.5 tesla scanner. After injection of low dose furosemide, half-Fourier rapid acquisition with relaxation enhancement images were obtained for T2-weighted static fluid magnetic resonance urography. Respiratory gated 3-dimensional gradient echo images were acquired for T1-weighted excretory magnetic resonance urography 5 to 30 minutes after intravenously administered gadolinium.All magnetic resonance examinations were successfully performed without sedation. The diagnostic accuracy of T1-weighted excretory magnetic resonance urography depended on the renal function. Twelve duplex systems with a normal excretory function, including 6 bifid ureters and 6 upper moieties with inferomedial ectopic ureters, were analyzed correctly with the exception of a 6 mm. ureterocele in 1 case. In 6 duplex systems with poor or nonfunctioning upper moieties ectopic ureters were only demonstrated on T2-weighted magnetic resonance urograms.Respiratory gated excretory and static fluid magnetic resonance urography complement each other in the evaluation of duplex systems in children and provide high accuracy in the evaluation of suspected ectopic ureters and ureteroceles.

We assessed optimal selection criteria for and expected outcome of bladder neck injection of collagen in children with intrinsic sphincteric deficiency.We retrospectively reviewed the charts of children with intrinsic sphincteric deficiency treated with bladder neck injection of collagen at 3 pediatric urology centers.We reviewed the records of 12 boys and 6 girls 6 to 18 years old (median age 10.5). The underlying etiology of incontinence was neurogenic bladder in 10 patients, the epispadias-exstrophy complex in 6, ureterocele in 1 and trauma in 1. Previous surgery included bladder augmentation in 4 cases, bladder neck plasty in 7 and epispadias repair in 4, and concurrent medical management comprised anticholinergics in 8, alpha-agonists in 1 and intermittent catheterization in 9. Skin tests in all patients were negative for collagen. Seven patients had 1 injection, 9 had 2 and 2 had 3. The volume of collagen injected ranged from 2.4 to 13 cc (median 5) per treatment and 3 to 28 cc (median 7) per patient. Followup ranged from 5 to 21 months (median 15). Of the 14 patients evaluated 5 are dry, 4 are improved, 1 is unchanged and 4 underwent further continence surgery. No treatment related morbidity was seen.Endoscopically directed injection of collagen around the bladder neck is successful in 64% of children with intrinsic sphincteric deficiency. It is an outpatient treatment with no significant morbidity. Further continence surgery is not precluded when necessary. Patients with adequate capacity and compliant neurogenic bladders, and those with the exstrophy-epispadias complex and failed bladder neck plasty seem to be optimal candidates for collagen injection.

We reviewed the records of 87 patients with a ureterocele associated with duplication and a nonfunctioning upper pole segment. All patients involved in this study were treated by partial nephroureterectomy and observation. Additional surgery to correct vesicoureteral reflux became necessary in 54 cases (62%). A careful retrospective chart and radiographic review identified that the need for additional surgery was directly related to the number of renal moieties that had a ureterocele or vesicoureteral reflux present. In particular, when a ureterocele alone was present 21 of 21 patients (100%) did not require additional surgery. When low grade (less than 3/5) reflux was present into 1 ureter 8 of 15 patients (60%) did not require surgery. The presence of high grade reflux into 1 moiety or vesicoureteral reflux into more than 1 moiety, regardless of the grade of reflux, almost inevitably resulted in the need for further surgery with only 2 of 50 patients (4%) with these abnormalities cured by partial nephroureterectomy alone. Our data suggest that this latter group of patients may be treated more efficaciously by complete genitourinary reconstruction rather than partial nephroureterectomy alone.

Ureteroureterostomy is a treatment modality for managing an ectopic ureterocele or ectopic ureter and preserving upper pole kidney function. However, the development of urinary tract infection at the residual ureteral stump is a concern. We analyzed factors affecting the development of urinary tract infection at the residual ureteral stump after proximal ureteroureterostomy.Between January 2002 and December 2009 proximal ureteroureterostomy was performed in 80 patients with ectopic ureterocele or ectopic ureter associated with a duplex system. Excluding 6 patients who did not meet the study inclusion criteria, we investigated age at operation, diameter of the upper pole ureter on ultrasonography, differential renal function and the presence of vesicoureteral reflux in 74 patients. Risk factors for residual ureteral stump infection and decreased differential renal function were analyzed.During a median followup of 5.0 years an additional operation was required in 9 patients (12.2%) due to urinary tract infection at the residual ureteral stump a median of 2.4 years after initial proximal ureteroureterostomy. The preoperative maximal diameter of the upper pole ureter was significantly greater in patients with infection complications. The postoperative maximal diameter of the upper pole ureter was also significantly greater on postoperative ultrasonography performed a median 43.0 days after the operation. Median preoperative and postoperative differential renal function was 47.8% and 47.0%, respectively. No preoperative factors were significantly related to the decrease in differential renal function.Proximal ureteroureterostomy is a safe treatment for ectopic ureterocele or ectopic ureter with a low postoperative complication rate. Upper pole ureter diameter was correlated with the development of a urinary tract infection at the residual ureteral stump.

Purpose: We assessed the outcome of patients treated for prenatally detected duplex system ureterocele with particular reference to those treated expectantly.Materials and Methods: We reviewed the records of 52 consecutive patients treated between 1984 and 1999 with a median followup of 8 years (range 1 to 16.2).Results: Of the 38 patients who underwent surgical treatment 13 subsequently required unplanned secondary procedures. A total of 14 cases satisfying currently defined criteria, including less than 10% upper renal pole function, an unobstructed lower pole (absent nonrefluxing hydroureteronephrosis), lower pole vesicoureteral reflux not exceeding grade III and unobstructed bladder outflow, were managed expectantly with a median followup of 8 years (range 1.6 to 12.8). In this group of patients prophylactic antibiotics were routinely prescribed until the completion of toilet training or age 5 years in those with persistent reflux on repeat cystography. None has required surgery or had symptoms or uri...

We studied the clinical evolution of vesicoureteral reflux after endoscopic puncture of ureterocele in pediatric duplex systems.We retrospectively reviewed charts of children with duplex system ureteroceles treated between 1992 and 2007. We analyzed patient age, prenatal diagnosis, urinary tract infection at presentation, differential renal function and preoperative vesicoureteral reflux. The fate of associated vesicoureteral reflux after endoscopic puncture of ureterocele was specifically addressed.We analyzed 60 patients with a mean age of 12 months, of whom 32 (52%) were diagnosed prenatally and 40 (66%) presented with a urinary tract infection. The majority of ureteroceles were ectopic, and pre-puncture vesicoureteral reflux was seen in 40 patients (67%). Postoperative voiding cystourethrogram was performed in 50 cases. New onset of vesicoureteral reflux occurred postoperatively in 24 patients (40%), mainly ipsilateral to the lower pole or contralaterally. Spontaneous vesicoureteral reflux resolution or improvement occurred in 16 of 22 patients (72%) observed after primary endoscopic puncture of ureterocele. Surgical intervention after endoscopic puncture of ureterocele was performed in 25 patients (42%), of whom 9 underwent more than 1 reparative procedure.Vesicoureteral reflux after endoscopic puncture of ureterocele may occur in the ipsilateral upper or lower poles, or in the contralateral renal segments. Therefore, the reflux is not necessarily related to the puncture itself. Vesicoureteral reflux after endoscopic puncture of ureterocele can resolve spontaneously in a significant number of patients. Therefore, initial management by close surveillance is warranted. Considering the simplicity of the procedure, our findings support that endoscopic puncture of ureterocele is an attractive alternative for the initial management of pediatric duplex system ureteroceles.

The optimal endoscopic technique to manage an obstructing ureterocele would reliably relieve obstruction without creating de novo vesicoureteral reflux. The classic incision achieves decompression but invariably creates new vesicoureteral reflux. We compared a new endoscopic puncture technique to assess its superiority to endoscopic incision.We retrospectively reviewed 27 consecutive endoscopic ureterocele procedures at our institution. Patients who underwent an endoscopic incision or watering can puncture procedure had their records reviewed for preoperative radiological and clinical data, operative description, and postoperative radiological and clinical outcomes.Of the 15 patients with endoscopic ureterocele incision 11 underwent a watering can puncture. All ureteroceles were associated with grade 3 or 4 hydronephrosis. Incision successfully decompressed the ureterocele in 14 of 16 cases (87.5%) and hydronephrosis in 14 (87.5%) on postoperative renal ultrasound. De novo reflux was detected in 12 of 16 patients (75.0%) on postoperative voiding cystourethrogram. Puncture successfully decompressed the ureterocele in 10 of 11 cases (90.9%) and hydronephrosis in 9 (81.8%). De novo vesicoureteral reflux was detected in 4 of 11 patients (36.4%).Our initial review shows that the endoscopic watering can procedure successfully decompresses the obstructing ureterocele and its associated hydronephrosis. This technique also results in a decreased incidence of de novo vesicoureteral reflux and ultimately in fewer invasive procedures for the patient.

Endoscopic injection of dextranomer-hyaluronic acid copolymer is an accepted initial procedure to correct vesicoureteral reflux. Less data are available on its role in treating failed ureteral reimplantation.We retrospectively reviewed the charts from 2002 to 2008 and identified 21 patients (26 ureteral units) with persistent reflux after reimplantation.Mean age was 7 years (range 2 to 13). Mean followup was 2 years (range 10 to 46 months). Of the 17 patients with a single system ureteral reimplantation was extravesical in 9 and intravesical in 8 with tapering performed in 5. Three patients underwent reimplantation of duplex systems and 1 underwent reimplantation due to ureterocele. Residual reflux grade was 1 to 4 in 3 (11%), 17 (65%), 3 (11%) and 3 ureteral units (11%), respectively. Dextranomer-hyaluronic acid copolymer was injected transurethrally. The mean volume injected was 1.2 ml (range 0.7 to 3). After 1 injection reflux resolved in 15 patients (71%) or a total of 20 ureteral units (77%), including 12 of 14 (86%) extravesically and 8 of 12 (66%) intravesically reimplanted units. The resolution rate improved to 84% after multiple injections. Two of the 6 patients with reflux after 1 injection had a single system, 2 had an obstructive megaureter with tapered reimplantation, 1 had a duplicated system and 1 had a ureterocele. Three of the 5 patients with persistent reflux underwent revision surgery. Ureteral abnormalities other than reflux and tapered reimplantation were associated with a statistically significant inferior success rate.Dextranomer-hyaluronic acid copolymer injection is an efficacious salvage procedure for persistent reflux after ureteral reimplantation. The success rate is inferior for ureteral abnormalities other than primary vesicoureteral reflux and after tapering.

Purpose: We describe a simplified technique of upper pole heminephrectomy in cases of duplex kidney.Materials and Methods: The upper pole collecting system is entered and the upper pole is excised. The vascular supply to the upper pole is then easily identified and divided. The upper pole ureter is dissected below the lower pole vessels and distal ureteral dissection is completed. We performed the technique in 11 girls and 3 boys with a mean age of 1.8 years who had poor or nonfunctioning upper moieties of duplicated kidneys. The diagnosis was ectopic ureter in 11 cases and ureterocele with duplication in 3.Results: Mean surgical time was 95 minutes. Blood loss was not clinically significant in any patient and mean hospitalization was 2.7 days. The only postoperative complication was atelectasis, which resolved promptly with medical treatment. There was no injury to the lower pole ureter or vascular pedicle.Conclusions: Our technique enables reliable and safe excision of upper pole renal tissue with the m...

Two accepted open surgical techniques exist for lower urinary tract reconstruction for ureteroceles, that is complete excision/enucleation and marsupialization/partial excision. To our knowledge it is currently unknown whether 1 method offers better clinical outcomes. We sought to answer this question.We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent open surgical repair for ureterocele at 3 academic institutions. The 2 groups (complete excision vs marsupialization) were compared for each clinical outcome, including ongoing vesicoureteral reflux, new bladder diverticulum, hydronephrosis, continence, urinary tract infection and voiding dysfunction. Each clinical outcome was analyzed for independence from the surgical method.A total of 33 cases of complete excision and 24 of marsupialization were collected. The excision and marsupialization groups were similar with respect to patient age at surgery, gender and average followup (55 and 38 months, respectively). Most ureteroceles were unilateral and part of a duplicated system. Approximately half were intravesical and vesicoureteral reflux was the primary indication for surgery. In the excision group 82% of ureteroceles were previously punctured but only 50% were punctured in the marsupialization group (p = 0.09). Postoperatively the groups did not differ significantly in terms of ongoing vesicoureteral reflux (13% and 14%), bladder diverticulum (3% and 9%), continence (100% and 95%), urinary tract infection (43% and 46%) or voiding dysfunction (24% and 25%, respectively). They varied significantly in terms of improved or stable hydronephrosis (70% vs 91%, p = 0.05).When performing lower urinary tract reconstruction for ureterocele, this study demonstrates that the choice of complete excision vs marsupialization/partial excision does not appear to differentially affect clinical outcomes.

Despite the routine use of renal ultrasonography to document progressive improvement in hydronephrosis following ureteral tailoring and reimplantation of megaureters, there have been few reports characterizing the serial radiographic changes to be expected following this procedure. We evaluated the radiographic outcomes following surgical repair of megaureters at single institution, and assessed potential preoperative factors for predicting outcome.We conducted a retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent surgical correction of clinically significant megaureters at our center between 1996 and 2003. Demographic data, indications for surgery, and preoperative and postoperative radiographic imaging data were recorded.A total of 46 megaureters (39 patients) were tapered and reimplanted. Average patient age at surgery was 4.0 years (range 5 months to 19 years). Indications for surgery included recurrent or breakthrough urinary tract infections, decreased renal function and increased hydroureteronephrosis. Mean followup was 3.9 years (range 4 months to 7 years). Postoperative voiding studies showed vesicoureteral reflux in 3 reimplanted ureters (7%). There was no evidence of obstruction on postoperative nuclear renal scans in any patient. Renal ultrasonography revealed improvement or resolution of hydroureteronephrosis in 29 reimplanted units (63%). In general, male patients, those operated on at a younger age and those with a lower preoperative grade of hydronephrosis were most likely to demonstrate improvement or resolution of hydronephrosis. The best results were seen in ectopic megaureters, followed in decreasing order by refluxing megaureters, megaureters associated with ureteroceles and primary obstructive megaureters.Despite functional improvement on postoperative radiographic imaging, it is not uncommon to see persistent hydroureteronephrosis following excisional tapering and reimplantation of megaureters in childhood.

We determined the value of endoscopic treatment for vesicoureteral reflux associated with ureterocele.From 1984 to 2005, 109 children with a median age of 6 months underwent endoscopic ureterocele puncture. Ureterocele presented as a part of a duplex system in 97 of patients (89%) and as part of a single system in 12 (11%). Vesicoureteral reflux was seen to the lower ipsilateral moiety in 53 patients and in 32 contralateral kidneys (85 refluxing renal units). Puncture was performed with a 3Fr Bugbee electrode. High grade vesicoureteral reflux or breakthrough infection while on antibiotic prophylaxis served as the indication for the surgical correction of vesicoureteral reflux. Median followup after endoscopic correction was 10 years (range 1 to 21).Spontaneous vesicoureteral reflux resolution following successful ureterocele puncture was seen in 36 of the 85 refluxing renal units (42%) and in 5 (6%) reflux was downgraded. The latter patients were withdrawn from antibiotic prophylaxis and they did well. A total of 33 refluxing renal units with vesicoureteral reflux into the lower moiety of the ureterocele kidney and 11 contralateral refluxing renal units underwent endoscopic correction. Reflux was corrected in 31 of the 44 refluxing renal units (70%) after a single injection and it resolved after a second injection in another 9 (21%). In 4 refluxing renal units (9%) endoscopic correction failed and open reimplantation was done. Of the 109 patients (13%) 14 had vesicoureteral reflux to the ureterocele moiety following endoscopic puncture. Of those patients endoscopic correction resolved reflux in 3, reflux resolved spontaneously in 5 and upper pole partial nephrectomy was performed in 4 due to a nonfunctioning moiety. The remaining 2 patients did well without antibiotic prophylaxis.Our data show that endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux associated with ureterocele is a simple, long-term effective and safe procedure, avoiding the need for open surgery in the majority of patients following endoscopic puncture of ureterocele.

We quantified the burden of vesicoureteral reflux and ureteroceles in the United States by identifying trends in the use of health care resources and estimating the economic impact of the diseases.The analytical methods used to generate these results were described previously.Annual inpatient hospitalizations for vesicoureteral reflux increased slightly between 1994 and 2000 from 6.4/100,000 to 7.0/100,000 children, although this trend did not attain statistical significance. Inpatient hospitalization for ureteroceles remained relatively stable between 1994 and 2000 at an average of approximately 2,818 cases annually (1.0/100,000 to 1.1/100,000 children). The rates of visits to physician offices doubled during the 1990 s for commercially insured children (12/100,000 in 1994 and 26/100,000 in 2002) and children covered by Medicaid (43/100,000 in 1996 and 85/100,000 in 2000). Overall the rate of ambulatory surgery visits by commercially insured children increased from 3.4/100,000 in 1998 to 4.8/100,000 in 2002. Similar estimates were not available for children covered by Medicaid. Emergency room use by children with a primary diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux was rare, reflecting the trend toward delivery of care at physician offices, ambulatory surgery centers and inpatient hospitals. No reliable data could be obtained on outpatient visits or ambulatory surgery for ureteroceles. In 2000 total expenditures for inpatient pediatric vesicoureteral reflux were $47 million, an increase of more than $10 million since 1997. Based on data from 2000 the yearly national inpatient expenditures from ureterocele treatment were an estimated $4 million.The economic impact of inpatient treatment for pediatric vesicoureteral reflux is considerable. If other service types such as pharmaceuticals, and outpatient and ambulatory services were considered, the observed impact of this condition would certainly be greater. Importantly the costs of prophylactic medical therapy and emerging therapies such as Deflux are not accounted for in this estimate. Furthermore, indirect economic costs, such as work loss to parents of children with pediatric vesicoureteral reflux, were not considered, causing an even greater underestimation of the true costs associated with the condition. Although the National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions, and the Health Care Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Database include data on ureteroceles, the data were limited and, thus, they could not be used to determine reliable cost trends. Available data indicate that the mean cost per ureterocele case was almost $8,000 with little variation observed across ages, regions or sexes.

We report the evolution of endoscopic treatment of ectopic ureteroceles from the unroofing technique to a novel approach using concomitant ureterocele double puncture and intraureterocele fulguration. We also compare the results of different endoscopic modalities at a single center.We reviewed the records of 46 children with ectopic ureteroceles who were treated endoscopically between 1995 and 2005. The patients were divided into 2 main groups. Group 1 included 17 patients who underwent common endoscopic treatments, including ureterocele incision (4 patients), single ureterocele puncture (4), and single puncture with insertion of a Double-J stent (9). Group 2 included 29 children who underwent ureterocele double puncture and fulguration of the anterior and posterior walls of the collapsed ureterocele after insertion of a Double-J stent into both punctured sites. We also managed concomitant vesicoureteral reflux by endoscopic injection of tricalcium phosphate ceramic into the subureteral region.Total success rates in group 1 were 0%, 25% and 33% in patients who underwent ureterocele incision, single ureterocele puncture and single puncture with insertion of a stent, respectively. Total success rate in group 2 was 90% (p0.05). New onset vesicoureteral reflux developed in 8 patients (47%) in group 1, of which 6 were in ureterocele moieties, and in 8 patients (28%) in group 2, with none in a ureterocele moiety (p0.01). A total of 13 patients (76%) in group 1 required open surgical intervention, compared to 3 (10%) in group 2 (p0.05).This new endoscopic approach is highly effective in the treatment of children with ectopic ureteroceles.

The presence of congenital para-ureteral diverticulum (PUD) has been presumed to lower the resolution rate of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). PUD is considered an important cause of distortion of the vesicoureteral junction and persistence of VUR. Early surgery has been recommended based on this assumption. However, the scientific evidence supporting this approach is weak. We have been managing this group of patients more conservatively in the last 7 to 8 years on the premise that the presence of PUD is not per se an indication for surgery. To test this hypothesis, we performed a retrospective cohort study to compare the outcome of VUR in children with and without PUD.We identified 141 consecutive patients with VUR associated with PUD between 1990 and 2004. Of the patients 57 with duplication, ureterocele, neurogenic bladder or outlet obstruction were excluded from study. Median age of the remaining 84 patients at diagnosis was 2.9 years and 56 (69%) were males. Reflux was bilateral in 4 patients, and low (I to II), intermediate (III) and high (IV to V) grade in 39%, 35% and 26%, respectively. Followup was 3 to 168 months (median 47). The outcome was compared to a control group of 95 patients (150 units) with primary VUR and no PUD. The baseline parameters and followup were comparable in both groups.Overall, VUR resolved in 43%, persisted in 27% and was surgically corrected in 30% of the units with PUD. In the 25 patients (26 units) who underwent surgical intervention breakthrough urinary tract infection or new renal scars were the indication in only 5. The remainder were operated on because of persistent VUR and the presence of PUD, mainly before 1997. The incidence of breakthrough urinary tract infection or new renal scar was similar in the controls (6% in PUD group vs 10% in controls, p = 0.7). The resolution rate was 60% for low grade, 39% for intermediate grade and 22% for high grade VUR. These figures were not significantly different from those of the control group in which the resolution rates were 52%, 28% and 33% for comparable grades (p = 0.9). Kaplan-Meier analysis and log rank test did not show any difference in resolution of VUR in the 2 groups (p = 0.84). Multivariate analysis identified grade as the only variable affecting resolution (p = 0.028). The size of PUD did not affect the likelihood of resolution.The outcome of VUR is similar in children with or without PUD. Therefore, treatment of these patients should not differ. Surgery should be reserved for patients with breakthrough infection or renal scar progression.

We compared the outcome of laparoscopic vs open PN for duplication anomalies at our institution.We retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients undergoing PN within the last 4 years.A total of 34 patients (16 females) were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 consisted of 20 patients undergoing open PN between 2000 and 2003, and group 2 consisted of 14 patients undergoing laparoscopic PN between 2003 and 2004. Mean patient age was 21 months in group 1 and 18 months in group 2. Diagnosis was ectopic ureter in 18 patients, ureterocele in 11, VUR in 4 and ureteropelvic junction obstruction in 1. Cystoscopy was performed as part of the procedure in 30% of the patients in group 1 and 100% of those in group 2. Simultaneous lower tract procedures were performed in 3 patients in group 1 and 2 patients in group 2. Mean duration of PN was 115 minutes for group 1 and 180 minutes for group 2. There was no significant bleeding or need for transfusion except in 1 patient in the open group. Median hospitalization was 3 days for group 1 and 2 days for group 2. Mean analgesic requirement was 2.3 doses of opioids and 2 doses of ketorolac for group 1, and 3.2 doses of opioids for group 2. Acetaminophen only was used in 3 of 20 patients in group 1 and 5 of 14 in group 2. There were 2 complications in each group, namely 1 case of ureteral bleeding and 1 lower pole ureteral injury in group 1, and 1 omental hernia and 1 urinoma in group 2.Laparoscopic PN is feasible even in small infants, and the results are comparable to the open procedure. Length of hospitalization was shorter in the laparoscopic group. In our series the learning curve for this technique was rapid, and after a few cases the procedure could be done in the same time as open surgery, with the advantages offered by laparoscopy.

Purpose: We evaluated functional outcome following heminephrectomy in duplex kidneys. Materials and Methods: A total of 101 patients were identified who underwent upper or lower pole heminephrectomy between January 1995 and December 2000. We retrospectively reviewed 60 case notes with complete data. A total of 37 cases (62%) were diagnosed prenatally, while 20 (33%) presented as single or recurrent urinary tract infection and 3 (5%) as urinary incontinence. Of the patients 52 (87%) had unilateral duplex and 8 (13%) had bilateral duplex kidneys. In addition, 20 of the 60 patients (33%) had ureterocele. Mean age at surgery was 46 months (range 3 to 10 years). Results: Mean function as assessed by nuclear renography of the duplex kidney before heminephrectomy was 39.9% (range 22% to 61%) and following heminephrectomy was 33.1% (13% to 60%). Mean decrease in function was 6.8%, with a decrease in function of less than 5% in 18 patients, 5% to 10% in 13 and more than 10% in 5. The functional values were increased by 1% to 5% in 9 patients and unchanged in 15 patients after heminephrectomy. Conclusions: Following heminephrectomy there was a significant decrease in 8% of patients and a small decrease in function in the remaining moiety in 51%.

Purpose: We compared long-term morbidity associated with left in situ nonfunctioning or poorly functioning renal moiety of a duplex system in children with prenatal vs postnatal diagnosis of ureterocele who underwent endoscopic puncture. Materials and Methods: A total of 48 children underwent primary endoscopic puncture of duplex system ureterocele. Of the cases 35 (73%) were diagnosed prenatally (group 1) and 13 (27%) postnatally (group 2). Median age at time of puncture was 4 months in group 1 and 3.5 years in group 2. A total of 20 patients in group 1 (57%) and 8 in group 2 (62%) presented with intravesical ureterocele, while 15 in group 1 (43%) and 5 in group 2 (38%) had ectopic ureterocele. A total of 20 children in group 1 (57%) and 7 in group 2 (54%) had a nonfunctioning renal moiety, and 15 in group 1 (43%) and 6 in group 2 (46%) had a poorly functioning ureterocele moiety. Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) was present in 23 children in group 1 (66%) comprising 30 renal refluxing units (RRUs), and in 12 in group 2 (92%) comprising 14 RRUs. Median followup was 9 years (range 1 to 15) for both groups. Results: Preoperative urinary tract infection (UTI) was common in group 2 (92%) vs group 1 (20%). No patient in group 1 had development of UTI after puncture, while 23% of the children in group 2 presented with UTI. Four children (2 from each group) with ectopic ureterocele required secondary puncture resulting in satisfactory drainage. A total of 14 RRUs (47%) showed spontaneous resolution of VUR in group 1 compared to 3 (21%) in group 2. Four RRUs (13%) required endoscopic correction due to high grade VUR in group 1. Two RRUs (17%) were treated with endoscopic correction and 2 (17%) with ureteral reimplantation due to UTI in group 2. Only 1 patient in group 1 underwent nephrectomy due to nonfunctioning kidney, while 2 patients in group 2 required partial nephrectomy due to UTI. Conclusions: Our data reveal that prenatal diagnosis of duplex system ureterocele is associated with fewer UTIs, and early endoscopic management may decrease UTI and the need for additional surgery. Nonfunctioning or poorly functioning renal moieties left in situ following successful endoscopic decompression of ureterocele are not associated with additional morbidity and do not require partial nephrectomy in the majority of the cases.

Upper pole heminephrectomy is the conventional treatment for severely compromised nonfunctioning renal units associated with ureteroceles due to the potential morbidity of leaving a nonfunctioning renal moiety in place. This approach often fails to address the pathological anatomical defect present at the bladder level, and during long-term followup the majority of patients require subsequent lower tract surgery due to persistent ureterocele, new or persistent vesicoureteral reflux, or recurrent infections. We determined the success of primary lower urinary tract reconstruction for nonfunctioning renal moieties and the morbidity associated with leaving nonfunctioning renal units in situ.We present the collective experience of 2 institutions using definitive lower urinary tract reconstruction without upper tract ablative surgery in 16 patients with duplex collecting systems and an associated nonfunctioning renal moiety due to obstructing ureteroceles.At a mean followup of 62 months upper tract dilatation was decreased or completely resolved in all patients, no loss of renal function was present and 15 of 16 patients (94%) had no evidence of persistent reflux. Postoperative complications in the form of a urinary tract infection occurred in 2 of 16 patients (13%). No patient was febrile. No patient had development of hypertension, proteinuria or tumor during followup.We believe that primary, single stage, lower urinary tract reconstruction in children with severely compromised or nonfunctioning renal moieties damaged by ureteroceles is superior to upper urinary tract ablative surgery, successfully correcting the obstructive or refluxing pathology with minimal morbidity and risk during long-term followup.

Purpose: We assessed the outcome of a nonoperative approach in infants with prenatally detected ureteroceles associated with multicystic dysplasia. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of all infants with ureteroceles referred for evaluation of prenatally hydronephrosis was conducted. Ultrasound, cystogram and scintigraphy findings were tabulated. Clinical outcomes including infections and the need for surgical intervention were assessed. Results: We identified 5 female and 3 male infants with prenatally detected ureteroceles and associated multicystic dysplasia. There were 4 cases with renal duplication and 4 with single systems. All infants were treated expectantly. One infant had a single urinary tract infection. The multicystic dysplastic moiety involuted by age 18 months in all children. The ureterocele collapsed in 3 children and remained stable in the remainder. None of the children required surgical intervention with a median and mean followup of 36 months (range 14 to 54). Conclusions: We identified a subset of prenatally diagnosed ureteroceles that had a benign clinical course and did not require surgical intervention with available followup. Careful evaluation and interpretation of postnatal studies will allow identification and observational management of this unique subset of ureteroceles associated with multicystic dysplasia and absence of hydroureteronephrosis.

Endoscopic ureterocele decompression is a well established procedure in children. However, an accurate endoscopic incision may be challenging in large ectopic ureteroceles. We describe a percutaneously assisted technique to facilitate the ease of ureterocele incision and review other described methods.We reviewed the medical records of 12 children with ectopic ureteroceles subtending a double collecting system who underwent endoscopic, percutaneously assisted incision. Six ureteroceles were on the left side, 5 were on the right side and 1 child had bilateral ureteroceles. Decompression results were evaluated by ultrasound and Tc-mercaptoacetyltriglycine imaging during a mean of 2.8 years of followup.There were 7 girls and 5 boys. Mean age at presentation was 11.6 months (range 1 week to 6 years). The decompression success rate was 84% (11 of 13 renal units), and improved renal function and drainage was noted in 5 of 12 patients (41.6%). Seven of 12 patients had vesicoureteral reflux, of whom 2 were asymptomatic at followup and, hence, were treated conservatively. Five children underwent surgery because of recurrent urinary tract infections.Although our results are similar to those of other methods, percutaneously assisted cystoscopic incision of ureterocele enables easier and more accurate decompression. However, when comparing the various techniques described, it seems that postoperative results mostly reflect the anatomical and functional characteristics of the urinary system rather than the technique used.

From the experience of a large combined series of transperitoneal (TP) and retroperitoneal (RP) endoscopic complete and partial nephroureterectomies in children, we present a logical selective endoscopic approach to benign renal pathology.During a 5-year period 122 complete nephrectomies and nephroureterectomies (bilateral 2, invisible ectopic 8) and 63 partial nephroureterectomies for duplex (52 upper, 8 lower) or singleton polar disease (xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis 1, cyst 2) were performed. Of the partial nephrectomies, ureterectomy, bladder repair and lower moiety reimplantation were performed in 8. Patient age ranged from 2.7 months to 14 years (mean 2.9 years). Preoperative weight ranged from 2.7 to 98 kg (mean 12.3). The position of the renal remnant, the presence or absence of a refluxing ureter and the need for ureterectomy were the major determining factors affecting choice of endoscopic approach.A total of 179 (96.7%) procedures were successfully completed endoscopically. The 6 open conversions (3.2%) occurred early in our experience. The operating time reflected the complexity of the excision and lower urinary reconstruction (lateral and posterior RP 25 to 145 minutes [mean 92]) TP with ureterocelectomy and bladder neck repair 105 to 355 minutes [mean 153]. Hospital stay for RP and simple TP was 1.5 days (mean 1 to 4) and for complicated TP 2 to 8 days (mean 3.5).We suggest a posterior retroperitoneal approach with isolated renal excision without extended ureterectomy. The lateral retroperitoneal approach allows complete ureterectomy as well as better exposure to horseshoe and pelvic kidneys and, therefore, avoids exposure to intraperitoneal structures. Finally, the transperitoneal approach is recommended when complete moiety excision with lower urinary reconstruction is anticipated.

Historically, most patients with a renal duplication anomaly associated with upper pole hydronephrosis underwent upper pole nephrectomy and partial ureterectomy. Prenatal sonography has resulted in increased recognition of these anomalies and, therefore, earlier urological referral and evaluation. We investigated whether as a result more upper pole moieties were preserved by performing alternative procedures, such as ureteroureterostomy. In addition, the impact on overall morbidity of the disease and its treatment is assessed. Since 1984, of 29 patients treated for ectopic ureter or ureterocele 13 presented initially with a diagnosis of prenatal hydronephrosis. Of these patients, 5 (38.5%) underwent a renal sparing procedure consisting of ureteroureterostomy in 4 and excision of ureterocele with common sheath ureteral reimplantation in 1. The remaining 8 patients underwent upper pole nephrectomy and partial ureterectomy for a nonfunctioning upper pole moiety. In contrast, of 16 patients who presented without having undergone prenatal sonography only 2 (12.5%) underwent a renal preserving procedure. Initial treatment in the remaining 14 patients was upper pole nephrectomy and partial ureterectomy. The average age at initial treatment in the prenatally detected group was 3 months, compared with 5 years in the other group. Only 1 of the 13 patients (8%) in the prenatally detected group had symptoms, whereas 14 of 16 in the other group (87.5%) presented with significant symptoms consisting of sepsis in 12, an abdominal mass in 1, urinary incontinence in 1, and an incidental diagnosis made during evaluation of an associated anomaly in 2. Although there is still controversy regarding the impact of prenatal detection of hydronephrosis on the preservation of renal function in patients with a single system, our results show a beneficial effect in patients with duplication anomalies. This was reflected in our ability to salvage the upper pole moieties 3 times more frequently than was previously possible with minimal morbidity. More importantly, the potential serious clinical manifestations of these duplication anomalies in later life were eliminated by virtue of early treatment.

Seminal vesicle cysts are rare. Usually these lesions are asymptomatic and treatment is unnecessary. Definitive diagnosis can prove difficult, which has resulted in the use of invasive, potentially hazardous ultrasound guided aspiration and instillation of contrast medium with the associated risk of infection and abscess formation. We report 2 cases where magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provided a conclusive diagnosis without the need for invasive diagnostic tests. CASE REPORTS Case 1. A 22-year-old male presented complaining of dysuria and suprapubic discomfort 2 weeks in duration. Ultrasound and excretory urography were performed, and the probable diagnosis of right ureterocele was made. Multiplanar T1 and T2weighted MRI revealed a 4.1 cm abnormality on the right side situated between the bladder and seminal vesicle, and a convoluted tube extending from its posterior aspect to the right seminal vesicle (figs. 1 and 2). The abnormality demonstrated high signal intensity on T1-weighted sequences, suggesting the presence of proteinaceous fluid and not urine or simple fluid within the lesion. The features were those of a seminal vesicle cyst in association with an absent ipsilateral kidney. Case 2. A 15-year-old male presented with mild discomfort on voiding. MRI was diagnostic, showing a seminal vesicle cyst on the left side with associated ipsilateral renal agenesis. Examination with the patient under anesthesia revealed a palpable fluctuant mass superior to the prostate on the affected side, and cystoscopy confirmed the absence of a ureteral orifice. DISCUSSION The reproductive and renal systems are embryologically derived from the mesonephric duct. Anomalies of the seminal vesicles are commonly associated with abnormalities of other structures derived from the mesonephric duct, for example the vas deferens, kidney and ureter. One well recognized association is seminal vesicle cyst and ipsilateral renal agenesis. 1 Mostly these cysts are asymptomatic and treatment is unnecessary. When symptoms occur they are varied and include perineal pain, scrotal pain, pain on defecation, dysuria, urinary frequency and urgency, and pain on ejaculation. Bladder outlet obstruction and ureteral obstruction have been observed, as have recurrent urinary tract infection, epididymitis and chronic prostatitis. 2 Pelvic and transrectal ultrasound, excretory urography and computerized tomography have thus far formed the mainstay in the diagnosis of seminal vesicle cysts. Often there is difficulty in distinguishing these cysts from entities such as ureteroceles. 3 Moreover, ultrasound guided aspiration and instillation of contrast medium, which are commonly used, are associated with a risk of infection and abscess formation. In these 2 cases use of MRI was paramount in making the diagnosis of seminal vesicle cyst without the need to resort to more invasive investigations. The detection of a convoluted tail connecting the cystic abnormality to the seminal vesicle was pivotal in making the diagnoses. In addition, the presence of fluid of high signal intensity on T1-weighted sequences was helpful, as other lesions such as ureteroceles and simple cysts would be of low signal intensity on T1-weighted images.

The Churchill classification system grades the ectopic ureterocele based on the number of renal units in jeopardy. We apply this system to our experience to help predict response to initial surgical intervention.All cases of ectopic ureterocele diagnosed at our institution between 1990 and 2000 were retrospectively reviewed and categorized using the Churchill classification system. Initial surgical procedure and subsequent outcomes were analyzed.A total of 53 patients were identified, of whom 42% had only upper pole involvement (grade I), 40% ipsilateral upper and lower pole involvement (grade II) and 19% bilateral renal involvement (grade III). Endoscopic incision was definitive in 56% of grade I, 20% of grade II and no grade III ureteroceles. An upper tract approach was definitive in 85% of grade I, 45% of grade II and no grade III ureteroceles. An initial lower tract procedure was successful in 80% of grade II and 100% of grade III ureteroceles. Overall the initial surgical procedure was definitive in 73% of grade I, 48% of grade II and 20% of grade III ureteroceles.Our results confirm the findings of Churchill. In this series the majority of grade I ureteroceles were successfully managed with an upper tract procedure. However, high grade ureteroceles were more likely to require a secondary operation unless an initial lower tract reconstruction was performed.

It has been hypothesized that endoscopic decompression of the duplex extravesical ureterocele is necessary to prevent the complications of urinary tract infections and progressive hydronephrosis. This study was performed to test this premise.Infants younger than 2 weeks with an extravesical ureterocele associated with a duplex upper pole moiety were assigned to immediate endoscopic puncture of the ureterocele followed by antibiotic prophylaxis or antibiotic prophylaxis with plans for delayed surgical intervention. Radiographic studies and catheterized urine cultures were obtained at ages 3 and 6 months and for fever greater than 38.5C. All patients included in this study were followed through 6 months of life.Of the patients 32 underwent endoscopic puncture of the ureterocele. Median patient age at endoscopy was 5 days (range 3 to 13). During the first 6 months of life complications developed in 4 (12%), including febrile urinary tract infections in 3 (9%) and with progressive hydronephrosis due to incomplete puncture of the ureterocele in 1 (3%). The remaining 40 patients were treated with antibiotic prophylaxis and delayed open surgery. Median time to open surgery was 3 months (range 2 to 6). During the first 6 months of life complications developed in 5 (13%), including 3 (8%) febrile urinary tract infections and progressive hydronephrosis in 2 (5%). No statistical difference was noted between the 2 treatment groups.In patients with extravesical duplex ureteroceles neonatal complications of urinary tract infection and progressive hydronephrosis are not significantly different between those treated with immediate endoscopic decompression versus delayed open surgical intervention.

We evaluated the effectiveness of initial laser transurethral incision of ureterocele for relieving obstruction, prevention of infection and need for subsequent surgery.We reviewed the medical records and imaging studies of 30 children with ureterocele treated between 1995 and 2000. Of 30 children 14 underwent initial transurethral laser incision of the ureterocele. Records and images were evaluated for mode of presentation, ureterocele location, thickness, and decompression, and relief of obstruction. The incidence of urinary tract infection, new onset vesicoureteral reflux, upper segment renal function and need for subsequent surgery after incision was investigated.There were 5 boys and 9 girls in our series. Mean patient age at presentation was 17.5 months. There were 12 patients who had ectopic and 2 orthotopic ureteroceles. Ureterocele was defined as thick if ultrasound measurement was 4 mm. or greater. Thick ureterocele was present in 4 (28%) patients. All patients had ultrasound evidence of decompression of the ureterocele and upper tract with 1 treatment. Urinary infection risk was 0.015 per month of followup after incision. Vesicoureteral reflux was present in 8 of 12 (67%) ectopic systems before incision and 9 of 10 (90%) after. None had resolved reflux during followup. Upper pole renal function was assessed by renal scan and/or renal ultrasound. Upper pole function or increased cortical thickness was documented in 9 of 11 (82%) patients. Endoscopic laser incision was the only treatment required in 4 of 14 (28%) patients, including 2 with orthotopic and 2 ectopic ureteroceles. Of 14 patients 5 (36%) had undergone definitive surgery and 5 were followed.Endoscopic laser incision of ureterocele allows a precise incision and decompression of the ureterocele with 1 treatment. Laser incision of ureterocele should be considered as the initial treatment in most patients.

We assessed the outcome of patients treated for prenatally detected duplex system ureterocele with particular reference to those treated expectantly.We reviewed the records of 52 consecutive patients treated between 1984 and 1999 with a median followup of 8 years (range 1 to 16.2).Of the 38 patients who underwent surgical treatment 13 subsequently required unplanned secondary procedures. A total of 14 cases satisfying currently defined criteria, including less than 10% upper renal pole function, an unobstructed lower pole (absent nonrefluxing hydroureteronephrosis), lower pole vesicoureteral reflux not exceeding grade III and unobstructed bladder outflow, were managed expectantly with a median followup of 8 years (range 1.6 to 12.8). In this group of patients prophylactic antibiotics were routinely prescribed until the completion of toilet training or age 5 years in those with persistent reflux on repeat cystography. None has required surgery or had symptoms or urinary infection. In 6 cases followup ultrasonography showed substantial resolution of upper pole hydronephrosis with a collapsed ureterocele. Furthermore, 7 of the 38 patients who underwent surgical treatment early in our series would have been treated expectantly had the current criteria been applied.In 14 of the 52 patients (approximately 27%) with prenatally detected duplex system ureterocele the natural history of the complaint is essentially benign within the currently available followup.

We reviewed our experience with ureteroureterostomy as definitive treatment for vesicoureteral reflux or obstruction associated with ureteral duplication to determine the efficacy and morbidity of this procedure and identify factors that affect outcome.We performed a total of 100 ureteroureterostomies in 94 children with an average age of 28 months during the 23-year period ending May 1999. Four patients (4 kidneys) failed to return for postoperative evaluation. Followup was 2.5 to 206 months (mean 33). Indications for surgery were vesicoureteral reflux in 53 cases, obstructing ureterocele in 19, ureterocele with upper pole reflux in 4, an ectopic obstructed upper pole ureter in 18 and other in 2. In 23 kidneys ureteroureterostomy was combined with reimplantation of the recipient ureter. Surgery was considered successful when postoperative imaging revealed no reflux or obstruction and a patent ureteroureterostomy anastomosis.Ureteroureterostomy with or without ureteroneocystostomy was successful for treating 94% of kidneys, including 51 of 53 with reflux, 21 of 23 (91%) with ureterocele and 17 of 18 (94%) with an ectopic obstructed upper pole ureter. Significant ureteral size disparity, defined as a donor ureter diameter greater than 2-fold that of the recipient ureter, was noted in 69 kidneys. The most common complication (13 patients) was prolonged output from the Penrose drain. However, this complication did not result in a failed procedure in any case.Ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy is safe and efficacious for treating abnormalities associated with ureteral duplication. A significant discrepancy in ureteral size does not preclude ureteroureterostomy.

The treatment of ectopic ureterocele is controversial. In addition to debate on optimal therapy, discussion exists on whether there is further risk of deteriorating bladder function after extensive bladder surgery during the first year of life, which is a reason to postpone surgery. In a prospective nonrandomized trial we treated 40 patients regardless of age who had ectopic ureterocele with complete surgical reconstruction of the lower urinary tract and upper pole resection of poorly functioning upper pole moieties at referral. Excluded from study were 3 patients with only 1 affected renal moiety initially.We treated 31 female and 9 male patients 0 to 8.8 years old (mean age 2.17) at surgery for ectopic ureterocele extending into the bladder neck and urethra, including 19 younger than 1 year. Primary ureterocele excision was performed in 37 cases with reconstruction of the urethra, bladder neck and trigone, and ureteral reimplantation. Because of small ureterocele size, the ureterocele was left in situ in 3 patients, leading to secondary ureterocele removal due to obstructive voiding and urinary incontinence in 1 each. A staged procedure in 5 neonates involved primary lower urinary tract reconstruction with upper pole cutaneous ureterostomies followed by upper pole resection or ureteral reimplantation a few months later. After bladder neck reconstruction in 16 cases colposuspension was also done to create a normal vesicourethral angle. All patients underwent clinical and urodynamic evaluation at least 1.25 years after surgery (mean followup 5.59). Patients who were too young for the clinical assessment of continence by January 1999 were excluded from study.All patients are continent. A secondary endoscopic procedure was required in 13 cases, including cystoscopy only in 2, scar incision near the ureteral orifice in 3, endoscopic reflux treatment in 4, ureterocele remnant resection in 2 and bladder neck incision for obstructive voiding in 2. Secondary open bladder reconstruction was performed in another case due to a diverticulum. Postoperatively only 1 or 2 uncomplicated episodes of urinary tract infection developed in 11 patients, while there were recurrent urinary tract infections in 4. In a patient with a preexisting loss of renal function a severe infection led to renal scarring. The voiding pattern was normal in 29 patients but 11 had dysfunctional voiding, including 5 with recurrent urinary tract infection. Urodynamic followup confirmed these clinical findings. Bladder capacity in these patients was relatively high at an average of 124% of expected capacity for age. We noted no statistically significant difference in followup parameters in patients who underwent surgery before and after age 1 year. Additional colposuspension in 16 patients did not result in any significant change in outcome compared with that in patients without this procedure.When compared with results in the literature, complete primary lower urinary tract reconstruction in patients with ectopic ureterocele appears to have better results than a staged approach with initial endoscopic treatment. Moreover, our study provides no proof that extensive reconstructive bladder surgery in neonates and infants leads to bladder function deterioration at a later age.

Endoscopic incision was performed as the initial therapy for ureteroceles in children presenting to our institutions between 1985 and 1990. To assess the long-term efficacy of this treatment modality we reevaluated the outcome of these patients.Parameters reviewed included patient age at surgery, position of the ureterocele, a duplex system, preoperative and postoperative reflux, and the need for additional operations. Statistical analysis consisted of chi-square and Wilcoxon's rank sum tests.Of the patients 22 had intravesical and 22 had extravesical ureteroceles. Average age at initial surgery was 1.9 +/- 3.7 years with average followup of 7.2 +/- 3.1 years. A second operation was required in 18 cases (41%), which was significantly more likely for an extravesical ureterocele (18% versus 64%, p = 0. 002), a duplex system (p = 0.026) or preoperative reflux (p = 0.02). Second operations included reimplantation in 13 cases, upper pole partial nephrectomy in 7, total nephroureterectomy in 3, bladder neck reconstruction in 3 and lower pole pyeloplasty in 3. The only secondary operations performed for intravesical ureteroceles were reimplantation in 3 cases and upper pole nephrectomy in 1. New onset reflux developed in 14 of 27 patients (52%) postoperatively, including 7 with intravesical and 7 with extravesical ureteroceles. None required a second open operation.With extended followup the percentage of patients requiring open surgery after endoscopic incision of ureteroceles increased from our original report of 27% to 41% (p = 0.166). Only 18% of cases with an intravesical ureterocele required a subsequent operation compared to 64% with an extravesical ureterocele (p = 0.002). The reduction in size of the obstructed ureter following endoscopic decompression facilitated successful reimplantation. Endoscopic puncture permits definitive treatment in the majority of children by at most a single incision, open operation at the bladder level.

During the last 20 years the surgical approach to ureterocele has evolved from major open surgery to minimally invasive endoscopic puncture. We believe that the endoscopic approach decreases the need for open surgical procedures. We identified specific factors that predict the need for repeat surgery.We reviewed the charts of 60 new patients with ureterocele treated with primary endoscopic incision between 1991 and 1995. Followup ranged from 4 to 62 months (mean 20). Mode of presentation, ureterocele location, associated vesicoureteral reflux and association of the ureterocele with a duplex system were evaluated. Ureterocele wall thickness was assessed subjectively via radiographic and cystoscopic methods, and categorized as thin, intermediate and thick.All 9 patients with a single system ureterocele had an intravesical ureterocele. No patient had associated reflux nor did any require a secondary open procedure. In 3 cases new onset ipsilateral reflux into the ureterocele spontaneously resolved. Of the 51 patients with a duplex system and associated ureterocele 19 (37%) required a secondary open procedure. The ureterocele was intravesical and ectopic in 22 (43%) and 29 (57%) cases, respectively. Reflux was associated with the ureterocele in 27 patients (53%), and 12 (44%) required a secondary open procedure. A total of 11 patients underwent ureteral reimplantation of 15 refluxing renal units and only 2 renal units required ureteral tapering. Reflux is no longer present in 14 of the 15 renal units (93%). Patients with a thick walled ureterocele required repeat puncture more frequently than those with a nonthick ureterocele.With the use of modern endoscopic techniques children with intravesical and single system ureteroceles require secondary open surgery less frequently than those with ectopic and duplex system ureteroceles. The mode of presentation does not predict the need for a repeat open procedure. Thick walled ureteroceles require repeat endoscopic puncture more frequently than thin and intermediate walled ureteroceles.

We compared the efficacy of primary endoscopic decompression versus partial nephrectomy for treating ectopic duplex ureteroceles.We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients with renal duplication and upper pole ectopic ureterocele. Patients were classified according to the initial radiological evaluation. The operation performed was arbitrarily chosen by the surgeon.A total of 54 patients had unilateral upper or bilateral upper pole ureterocele with no associated vesicoureteral reflux. Partial nephrectomy was performed in 26 patients, of whom 4 (15%) required additional surgery for new onset ipsilateral lower pole reflux. Endoscopic decompression was performed in 28 patients, of whom 18 (64%) required additional treatment due to reflux into the ipsilateral lower pole ureter and ureterocele in 9, reflux into the ureterocele only in 4, ipsilateral lower pole reflux only in 3 and persistent ureterocele obstruction in 2 (p0.01). An ectopic ureterocele with vesicoureteral reflux into 1 or more moieties was identified in 111 patients, including 56 of 67 (84%) treated with partial nephrectomy and 37 of 44 (84%) treated with endoscopy who have persistent reflux or required further surgery for reflux resolution.In patients with an ectopic ureterocele and no vesicoureteral reflux partial nephrectomy should be considered the treatment of choice. However, when the initial cystogram reveals vesicoureteral reflux, partial nephrectomy and endoscopic ureterocele decompression have identical definitive cure rates of only 16%. The majority of the latter patients require continued observation and/or additional surgery for managing persistent reflux.

We studied the long-term outcome of transurethral puncture of ectopic ureteroceles specifically associated with duplex systems.We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who underwent transurethral puncture of an ectopic ureterocele. Study exclusion criteria were orthotopic, bilateral and prolapsing ureteroceles.We identified 19 girls and 2 boys, of whom 11 presented with prenatal hydronephrosis and 10 presented with urinary tract infection. Mean age at puncture was 5 months (range 0.5 to 60). Preoperatively voiding cystourethrography revealed no reflux in 7 patients, isolated ipsilateral lower pole reflux in 8, and bilateral and/or contralateral reflux in 6. Postoperatively studies initially showed no reflux in 8 cases but in 4 of the 8 reflux recurred up to 4 years after puncture. In 10 patients (48%) reflux developed into the ureterocele and upper pole segment. Repeat puncture was required 1 to 13 months after the initial procedure in 4 patients for persistent or recurrent upper pole hydroureteronephrosis. Subsequent open surgery was required in 15 of the 21 cases (71%), including ureterocele excision with ureteral reimplantation in 14. Of the children 10 and 4 underwent open surgery for recurrent urinary tract infection and progressive reflux, respectively, while 1 underwent ureteroureterostomy for progressive upper pole reflux. No patient underwent upper pole nephrectomy. Of the remaining 6 patients 4 have low grade reflux.Transurethral puncture of ectopic ureteroceles provides effective short-term correction of upper pole obstruction but it is not definitive therapy in the majority of cases. Most children still require open surgery. In patients without reflux after the puncture procedure new onset, recurrent or progressive reflux may later develop with extended followup. Repeat puncture may be required to ensure adequate decompression in a minority of cases, as in the 20% in our series.

Ureter is one of the best tissues for bladder augmentation. The amount of ureteral segment available is extremely variable among patients. We compared results in patients who underwent ureterocystoplasty with 2 ureters, 1 complete ureter or a distal segment only after transureteroureterostomy.During a 6-year period we performed 32 ureterocystoplasties at 2 pediatric centers in Argentina (16) and Chile (16). Median patient age at surgery was 9 years (range 4 months to 20 years). Clinical presentation included urinary infection, hydronephrosis, incontinence and undiversion. The diagnosis was neurogenic bladder in 20 cases, infravesical obstruction in 7, massive reflux in 3 and ureterocele in 2. All patients had poor bladder compliance and vesicoureteral reflux. We used different options to augment the bladder, including 2 ureters in 5 patients, bilateral nephrectomy in 3, a complete duplex system in 1 and a bilateral partial ureter in 1 (group 1); a complete ureter in 14 (group 2), and a distal segment of ureter with transureteroureterostomy in 13 (group 3). When transureteroureterostomy was performed, a suprapubic tube remained indwelling for 2 weeks and a Double-J stent was placed for 1 month. Median followup was 16 months (range 4 months to 6 years). Clinical and radiological evaluations, including ultrasound, cystography, urodynamics, renal scan and renal function measurement, were done 4 months postoperatively and twice yearly thereafter as needed.We noted no significant difference in bladder capacity when 1 or 2 ureters were used. Median increase in bladder capacity in groups 1 and 2 was 375% (range 80 to 800). All patients who received a complete segment of ureter had clinical improvement, decreased hydronephrosis and resolution of reflux with improved bladder compliance. When a partial segment of ureter was used median capacity increased 230% (range 40 to 400) with clinical improvement in 12 patients (92.3%). Compliance improved, which led to longer intervals between clean intermittent catheterizations. No patient has needed repeat augmentation to date.There is a difference in median increased bladder capacity when a segment of distal ureter is used to augment the bladder versus 1 or 2 whole ureters. However, the use of distal ureter still represents a safe alternative for augmenting the bladder and simultaneously resolving massive reflux. Ureterocystoplasty is an excellent choice for increasing bladder capacity and improving bladder compliance despite the different amounts of tissue available.

The management of extravesical ureterocele is controversial. Heminephrectomy and recently recommended primary incision or puncture have high reoperation rates. We reviewed and compared the long-term results of these procedures with those of primary lower tract reconstruction for ureterocele.We reviewed the records of 106 children with ureterocele treated between 1979 and 1997. Followup was available in 99 patients, including 72 with extravesical and 27 with intravesical ureterocele. Patients with extravesical ureterocele were divided based on initial management into group 1-13 who underwent transurethral incision or puncture, group 2-41 who underwent an upper tract approach, including partial or complete nephrectomy with partial ureterectomy or ureteroureterostomy and group 3-18 who underwent complete reconstruction, including ureterocelectomy and ureteral reconstruction with or without upper tract surgery.Overall the reoperation rate in patients with intravesical ureterocele was 22% and 23% in those treated with initial endoscopic incision or puncture. In patients with extravesical ureterocele the reoperation rate was 100, 41 and 0% in groups 1 to 3, respectively. Differences in followup (overall mean 6 years) and the incidence of preoperative reflux in the 3 groups were not statistically significant. In group 2, the reoperation rate in patients with versus without preoperative reflux was 57 versus 20% (p = 0.08). Of the 25 prenatally diagnosed patients urinary tract infection developed preoperatively in 3 (12%) at ages 2, 3, and 6 months, respectively. Mean age at the time of the initial operation in all prenatally diagnosed patients was 3.1 months (range 5 days to 11 months).Complete reconstruction appears to be safe and highly effective even in infancy for treating extravesical ureterocele. Although the primary upper tract approach is associated with a significantly higher reoperation rate, it is a favorable alternative in patients with no preoperative reflux. However, while transurethral decompression is effective in the majority of patients with intravesical ureterocele, it is not definitive therapy for extravesical ureterocele and it should have a limited role in initial management.

We evaluate whether bladder dysfunction is common in patients with ectopic ureterocele and, if so, whether it is an integral part of the ectopic ureterocele complex or a result of surgery.From 1986 to 1995, 34 patients with a mean age of 10 months were treated for large or medium ectopic ureteroceles at our institution and 32 participated in postoperative followup. Bladder function was investigated by a careful history and repeat uroflowmetry, and residual urine estimation was assessed by ultrasound and cystometry.Of the 32 patients 19 had infrequent voiding and 3 had incontinence. Cystometric bladder capacity was increased to greater than 150% of the normal value for age in 15 of 27 patients (55%). Uroflowmetry revealed greater than 5 ml. residual urine in 15 patients (56%). Postoperatively no radiological signs of bladder neck obstruction were found. Increased bladder capacity and residual urine did not correlate with ureterocele size or location, or surgical procedure. There was no progression of bladder dysfunction with age.Children with ectopic ureterocele are at high risk for a high capacity bladder with incomplete emptying. This bladder dysfunction associated with ectopic ureterocele does not seem to be the result of surgery but an integral part of the disorder.

We report a series of 35 neonates presenting with ureterocele diagnosed during the antenatal period or during the first weeks of life. The first line treatment was an endoscopic incision.Immediate postnatal evaluations detected 37 ureteroceles (bilateral in 2 cases), including 16 of the intravesical type and 21 that were ectopic. Endoscopic incision permitted decompression of the majority of ureteroceles and improvement in renal function in most cases. Secondary low grade vesicoureteral reflux appeared in 9 neonates (ectopic in 8 cases) and had already been present in 14 patients.Endoscopic treatment alone proved effective in 14 of the intravesical ureteroceles, while the other 2 cases requiring upper pole nephrectomy (1) and ureterovesical reimplantation using the Cohen technique (1). In contrast, among patients with the ectopic form additional surgery was necessary in 18 cases. Treatment comprised resection of the ureterocele with bladder reconstruction and ureteral reimplantation without remodeling according to the Cohen technique in 15 cases, total ureteronephrectomy in 1 and pole nephrectomy in 2.We suggest that early endoscopic incision be used for first line treatment of ureteroceles. The aim of this procedure is to ensure better urine drainage, preserve function of the parenchyma and reduce the risk of severe infection in the neonate. The principal complication remains secondary vesicoureteral reflux onset, which can be controlled well by antibiotic prophylaxis but requires regular radiological monitoring.

Duplicated upper pole systems associated with a ureterocele frequently have areas of segmental renal dysplasia. Since dysplasia has been related to the development of renin mediated hypertension, we hypothesized that preservation of functional upper pole moieties may result in an increased incidence of high blood pressure.We evaluated 115 patients with a history of renal duplication and an ipsilateral upper pole ureterocele. Patients were separated into group 1-nonfunctional upper pole managed by partial nephrectomy, group 2-functional upper pole moiety managed by partial nephrectomy and group 3-functional upper pole moiety managed by a nephron sparing procedure. All charts were reviewed for hypertension, febrile urinary tract infection, vesicoureteral reflux and renal scarring.At a median followup age of 15 years (range 1 to 33) hypertension developed in 13 of the 115 patients (11%), including 8 of the 87 (9%) with nonfunctional upper pole systems managed by partial nephrectomy, 1 of the 12 (8%) with a functional upper pole moiety managed by partial nephrectomy and 4 of the 16 (25%) with a functional upper pole system managed by an upper pole salvage procedure. Statistical evaluations failed to reveal any relationship between hypertension and preservation of the upper pole system or between hypertension and vesicoureteral reflux. Rather, elevation in blood pressure was found to be related to development of a renal scar after a febrile urinary tract infection.Hypertension in patients with a history of renal duplication associated with a ureterocele is directly related to renal scarring.

After ureteroneocystostomy we have performed renal ultrasonography within the first 3 months to exclude hydronephrosis, voiding cystography after 3 months to exclude vesicoureteral reflux and subsequent ultrasonography to monitor the upper tracts. This study attempted to determine those patients at risk for hydronephrosis or recurrent vesicoureteral reflux.We studied the records of patients who underwent ureteroneocystostomy in the last decade at our institutions to find the incidence and degree of preoperative and postoperative hydronephrosis and vesicoureteral reflux. Results of initial postoperative imaging were compared to radiological imaging throughout followup (mean 2.3 years). Patients with postoperative reflux were evaluated for risk factors that differentiated them from others.Excluding patients with neuropathic bladder or ureterocele, 167 underwent 278 ureteroneocystostomies at a mean followup of 26.5 months. Persistent vesicoureteral reflux was noted in 4 kidneys (1.4%) and contralateral reflux developed in 3 of the 48 cases (6.3%) of unilateral ureteroneocystostomy. There was no statistical difference in success rates among cross-trigonal, ureteral advancement or extravesical techniques. New onset mild hydronephrosis in 13 kidneys (4.7%) at the initial followup study (mean 1.6 months) completely resolved in 12 and remained mild in 1. No patient had progression of existing hydronephrosis and 1 had recurrent vesicoureteral reflux after initial negative cystography. Risk factors for postoperative reflux or hydronephrosis were preoperative dysfunctional voiding, preoperative hydronephrosis or scarring on sonography and postoperative urinary tract infection. None of the 88 patients without these risk factors had postoperative hydronephrosis or reflux. All patients with persistent, contralateral or recurrent reflux were selected using these criteria (p0.003).Complication rates after nontapered ureteroneocystostomy in children without neuropathic bladder are quite low. Mild postoperative hydronephrosis was not clinically significant in our patients. Children with abnormal preoperative ultrasound or dysfunctional voiding are identified as a high risk group for postoperative hydronephrosis or recurrent reflux. All other patients received little benefit from postoperative imaging, suggesting that further evaluation of this group is necessary only in the presence of a postoperative urinary tract infection.

From 1985 to 1993, 33 female and 4 male patients 0 to 3 years old presented with abnormal complete duplex systems of whom 25 had a prenatal diagnosis of hydronephrosis. Diagnosis in 40 ureteral moieties included ureteroceles in 10, ectopic ureteral insertions with reflux and obstruction in 17, and refluxing lower ureters in 13. Of 40 renal units only 6 (15 percent) required upper pole moiety ablation for pyelonephritis or nonfunction. None of the ablated renal tissue showed evidence of dysplasia. With the advent of prenatal diagnosis and minimal surgical intervention complete duplex anomalous urinary systems can be salvaged with preservation of altered renal units.

A review of 54 consecutive cases of ectopic ureterocele treated at our institution in the last 15 years revealed 4 cases of the cecoureterocele variant. Although the diagnosis of ectopic ureterocele was made preoperatively, the more accurate diagnosis of cecoureterocele was not suggested by preoperative radiographic studies. The cecocele component was disclosed only at endoscopy or during open resection of the ureterocele. A review of the presentation, preoperative assessment, intraoperative management and outcome of each case of unsuspected cecoureterocele suggests that optimal surgical management of the cecocele itself does not require total removal.

Between 1970 and 1990 a total of 37 patients (female-to-male ratio 3.6:1) was diagnosed and treated at our institution for ectopic ureterocele. Urinary tract infection was the most frequent mode of presentation (59%). Of the patients 54% were less than 3 years old at operation. Transurethral incision of ectopic ureterocele served only as a decompressive procedure for acutely ill infants and was followed with a high incidence (80%) of resultant vesicoureteral reflux. The elective surgical policy was individualized based on renal function and presence of vesicoureteral reflux. Overall results within the various groups were generally satisfactory regarding eradication of urinary tract infections, preservation of renal function and continence or treatment of vesicoureteral reflux. Upper pole heminephrectomy and partial ureterectomy were performed in 14 patients with 3 (21%) requiring reoperation, including only 2 (14%) subsequent reimplantations. Thus, we believe that an expectant approach to the lower urinary tract is well recommended in the majority of the patients with a poorly functioning ipsilateral renal segment. A modified technique of total reconstruction, performing only partial ureterectomy with double barrel reimplantation, was successful in 7 patients.