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PurposeEndoscopic treatment with high-pressure balloon dilatation (HPBD) has been proposed as a feasible, safe and minimally invasive procedure for primary obstructive megaureter, but the level of evidence is still low. This systematic review aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of HPBD and its long-term results in paediatric population.MethodsThe review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Systematic research of available literature in the English language from 1995 until June 2022 was conducted through EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane Library and NIH Registry of Clinical Trials. For each relevant study, information was gathered regarding the study design, the inclusion/exclusion criteria, the indications for treatment, the success rate and the complications.ResultsThe final set included 13 studies. Median age of the patients ranged from 4 months to 7 years (full range 15 days-15 years). The indications for HPBD varied in different studies, however most authors included patients with increasing dilation, obstructive patterns found at diuretic renogram scan, decreased renal function or symptoms. All the studies analysed reported a success rate ranging from 69 to 100% for the treatment of POM with HPBD. This approach may avoid surgery in up to 77% of cases and is thought to be a less invasive, definitive and safe treatment for this disorder. The complication rate ranged from 0 to 50% and it was mostly infectious or associated to the stent placement or both.ConclusionHPBD demonstrated to be safe for the treatment of POM in infants, with effective long-term results and can be a definitive treatment in a considerable subset of patients. Nevertheless, the overall level of evidence for HPBD is still low and further comparative studies or randomized clinical trials are needed.

Complex kidney cysts are rarely observed in childhood. In adult patients, when radiological studies found a suspicious renal lesion, the gold standard is surgical asportation. The robotic surgery is well known as a secure procedure for treatment these patients, and is nowadays a real alternative also for pediatric patients. The challenges in children surgery are linked to anesthesiologic gestion, smaller operative fields, the need of specific instruments and more delicate tissue handling. We present a step-by-step video description of a robotic partial nephrectomy for a renal multicystic mass in a 4 year-old child.

Background The choice of the sex of rearing in patients with ovotesticular differences of sex development (OT-DSD) is difficult. The final decision should be given by the patient himself or herself, but families’ opinion is not to neglect especially when the diagnosis is precocious and the patient can’t give the consent to medical or surgical procedures. How should we behave if the parents refuse to raise a child with genital ambiguity? Case presentation We describe and comment on our multidisciplinary approach in three patients with neonatal diagnosis of OT-DSD. The families expressed a strong desire for that which concerned the sex of rearing of their babies in contrast to the International trend of “wait and see”. A specific counselling and a constant psychological support were given. Conclusions Recent trends suggest of postponing surgery to involve the patient in the decision. Child’s well-being is the goal of therapy. When medical and psychological support is not able to force parents to accept a child suffering from genital ambiguity, we think that it is better to opt for reversible medical/surgical treatments rather than allowing patients to grow up within a family that does not accept them.

Highlights • Small-bowel volvulus could be a presentation of a cystic mesenteric LM. • Diagnosis could be intraoperative. • Complete excision including, in some selected cases, a bowel resection, should be the treatment of choice., Introduction An acute abdomen in the form of small-bowel volvulus could be a presentation of a lymphatic malformation in childhood. Case presentation A 5 year old male was admitted to our Institute for an acute abdomen. Clinical aspects and radiological images were not specific for a certain diagnosis. Laparotomy revealed a big soft mass, with a milky content, completely involving about 50 cm of ileus with a partial volvulus of the intestinal loop. A complete mass excision and also a bowel involved resection were performed. After a histological examination, a lymphatic malformation was diagnosed. Discussion The diagnosis of a mesenteric lymphatic malformation could be intraoperative and a complete resection should be the treatment of choice. Sometimes it could be necessary to perform an involved bowel tract resection in the case of volvolus with ischemia. Conclusions Paediatricians and surgeons should bare in mind that an intrabdominal lymphatic malformation may present as a nonspecific an acute abdomen caused by a bowel volvolus and diagnosis may not be so simple preoperatively.

Failed hypospadias refers to any hypospadias repair that leads to complications or causes patient dissatisfaction. The complication rate after hypospadias repairs ranges from 5-70%, but the actual incidence of failed hypospadias is unknown as complications can become apparent many years after surgery and series with lifelong follow-up data do not exist. Moreover, little is known about uncomplicated repairs that fail in terms of patient satisfaction. Risk factors for complications include factors related to the hypospadias (severity of the condition and characteristics of the urethral plate), the patient (age at surgery, endocrine environment, and wound healing impairment), the surgeon (technique selection and surgeon expertise), and the procedure (technical details and postoperative management). The most important factors for preventing complications are surgeon expertise (number of cases treated per year), interposition of a barrier layer between the urethroplasty and the skin, and postoperative urinary drainage. Major complications associated with failed hypospadias include residual curvature, healing complications (preputial dehiscence, glans dehiscence, fistula formation, and urethral breakdown), urethral obstruction (meatal stenosis, urethral stricture, and functional obstruction), urethral diverticula, hairy urethra, and penile skin deficiency.

PURPOSE: We compared complication rates, urinary symptoms and cosmetic outcomes as perceived by parents of patients undergoing 1 of 4 repairs for proximal hypospadias associated with ventral curvature. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 93 patients underwent hypospadias repair between 2004 and 2010. In patients requiring no urethral plate transection the repair consisted of tubularized incised plate urethroplasty (26 patients) or onlay island flap urethroplasty (31). In patients requiring urethral plate transection the repair consisted of onlay island flap on albuginea (18 patients) or 2-stage repair (18). Complications were assessed by chart review. A customized questionnaire and the Pediatric Penile Perception Score were administered to parents to evaluate their perception of urinary symptoms and cosmetic outcomes, respectively. RESULTS: After a median followup of 4.5 years (range 2.2 to 8.4) complications developed in 21 patients (23%) without any difference among procedures or between patients who did and did not require urethral plate transection. Parents of 75 patients (80%) participated in the survey without differences among repairs (p = 0.35). Reported urinary symptoms were not different among repairs. For Pediatric Penile Perception Score the only difference concerned the question about penile length (p = 0.03), with the score being significantly better for the techniques requiring urethral plate transection (p = 0.05). The 2-stage repair had a significantly better score for the question about penile length and overall Pediatric Penile Perception Score than all other techniques. CONCLUSIONS: Overall complication rates were comparable among repairs and did not increase after urethral plate transection. Urinary symptoms as reported by parents were comparable among the procedures. Perceived penile length was significantly better after urethral plate transection. The 2-stage repair yielded the best cosmetic results.

Summary Objective In principle, the prepuce can be reconstructed during hypospadias repair, but the procedure has not gained wide acceptance and preputial reconstruction (PR) is surrounded by several controversies. Material and methods A review is provided of the technique for PR, how PR combines with the other steps of hypospadias repair, the risks of complications related to the urethroplasty and specific to PR, and the results of PR with particular regard to the relevance for the patient and his family. Results PR can be important for patients requiring hypospadias repair and their parents. It can be performed in almost all patients with distal hypospadias except perhaps those with the most asymmetrical prepuces or severe ventral skin deficiency. PR does not seem to increase urethroplasty complications, but combination of PR with tubularisation of the urethral plate urethroplasty seems to offer the best chance of success. Specific complications occur in around 8% of patients and include partial or complete dehiscence of the prepuce and secondary phimosis. To prevent the latter, the reconstructed prepuce should be easily retractile at the end of surgery. Technical modifications can help to achieve this goal. Cosmetically, reconstructed prepuces are not fully normal, but the abnormality could be less important for a patient and his parents that the complete absence of the prepuce. Conclusion On the basis of the evidence summarised above, an algorithm for PR in patients with distal hypospadias is proposed. PR can be offered to the vast majority of distal hypospadias patients, although some modification of the technique for hypospadias repair can be required. Retractility of the reconstructed prepuce at the end of surgery seems paramount for final success.

Study Objective To report results of a retrospective multicentric Italian survey concerning the management of pediatric ovarian torsion (OT) and its recurrence. Design Multicenter retrospective cohort study. Setting Italian Units of Pediatric Surgery. Participants Participants were female aged 1-14 years of age with surgically diagnosed OT between 2004 and 2014. Interventions Adnexal detorsion, adnexectomy, mass excision using laparoscopy or laparotomy. Different kinds of oophoropexy (OPY) for OT or recurrence, respectively. Main Outcome Measures A total of 124 questionnaires were returned and analyzed to understand the current management of pediatric OT and its recurrence. The questionnaires concerned patient age, presence of menarche, OT site, presence and type of mass, performed procedure, OPY technique adopted, intra- and postoperative complications, recurrence and site, procedure performed for recurrence, OPY technique for recurrence, and 1 year follow-up of detorsed ovaries. Results Mean age at surgery was 9.79 ± 3.54 years. Performed procedures were open adnexectomy (52 of 125; 41.6%), laparoscopic adnexectomy (25 of 125; 20%), open detorsion (10 of 125; 8%), and laparoscopic detorsion (38 of 125; 30.4%). Recurrence occurred in 15 of 125 cases (12%) and resulted as significant ( P = .012) if associated with a normal ovary at the first episode of torsion. Recurrence occurred only in 1 of 19 cases after OPY (5.2%). Ultrasonographic results of detorsed ovaries were not significant whether an OPY was performed or not ( P = 1.00). Conclusion Unfortunately, oophorectomy and open technique are still widely adopted even if not advised. Recurrence is not rare and the risk is greater in patients without ovarian masses. OPY does not adversely affect ultrasonographic results at 1 year. When possible OPY should be performed at the first episode of OT.

Summary Introduction Bladder-exstrophy-epispadias complex (BEEC) represents a spectrum of urogenital step-wise malformations: epispadias, complete exstrophy, and cloacal exstrophy. Psychosexual development in adolescent patients with BEEC may become especially problematic. At present, there are few contributions in the literature investigating the validity of psychosexual treatment in order to tackle this particularly emotional and personal development phase. Objective The study aimed at verifying the efficacy of an intervention methodology for psychosexual support of a group of adolescents with BEEC. The main goal of the intervention program was to educate the adolescents and re-frame how they see themselves or feel about themselves, especially in relation to BEEC. In particular it was predicted that the program could: (1) improve the perception of pleasure concerning the body, particularly regarding the genital area, giving proper and specific information on pleasure, masturbation and medical history of BEEC; and (2) elicit a more relational-affective perspective on sexuality. Study design 13 adolescent patients took part in the 1-year program. The effects of the intervention program were verified through a test-retest methodology using Sexuality Evaluation Schedule Assessment Monitoring (SESAMO). Results The results showed that participants changed their attitude in several psychosexual areas, more specifically: psycho-environmental situations, body experience, areas of pleasure, medical and sexual history, and motivation and conflict areas ( Summary Table ). Discussion This study demonstrated, for the first time, that a targeted program may significantly improve the psycho-sexual condition of adolescents with BEEC. In particular, this research showed that adolescents need to be able to discuss and tackle topics of a psychological and sexual nature, as well as receive understandable answers that can be put into practice in their everyday lives. The study had several methodological limitations, especially owing to the limited number of participants, the absence of a follow-up period of a few months after the intervention, and the overall exploratory nature of the program. Conclusion This intervention methodology may be considered a first attempt at improving the self-esteem of adolescents with BEEC, by contrasting forms of psychological difficulties in order to improve the quality of life of these young people. Table . Areas Median percentile rank-pre pre-intervention Median percentile rank-post postintervention M F M F Related psycho-environmental situations 84* 89* 37 37 Body experience 98* 98* 46 38 Areas of pleasure 90* 90* 37 37 Medical and sexual history 99* 98* 40 40 Motivation and conflict 95* 95* 31 31

Introduction: We performed a systematic review of the literature on preputial reconstruction (PR) during hypospadias repair to determine the cumulative risk of preputial skin complications and the influence of PR on urethroplasty complications, namely fistula formation and overall reoperation rate of the repair. Material and Methods: A systematic search of the literature published after 06/1995 was performed in 06/2015 using the keyword “hypospadias”. Only studies on the outcome of PR in children, defined as dehiscence of the reconstructed prepuce or secondary phimosis needing circumcision, were selected. A meta-analysis of studies comparing PR vs. circumcision was performed for the outcomes “hypospadias fistula formation” and “reoperation rate”. Results: Twenty studies were identified. Nineteen reported the outcome of PR in 2115 patients. Overall, 95% (2016/2115) of patients undergoing PR had distal hypospadias. The cumulative rate of PR complications was 7.7% (163/2115 patients), including 5.7% (121/2115 patients) preputial dehiscences and 1.5% (35/2117 reported patients) secondary phimoses needing circumcision. A meta-analysis of 7 studies comparing patients undergoing PR vs. circumcision, showed no increased risk of urethral fistula formation associated with PR, Odds Ratio (Mantel-Haenszel, Fixed effect, 95% CI), 1.25 (0.80-1.97). Likewise, two studies comparing the overall reoperation rate did not show an increased risk of reoperation associated with PR, Odds Ratio (Mantel-Haenszel, Random effect, 95% CI), 1.27 (0.45-3.58). Conclusions: Preputial reconstruction carries an 8% risk of specific complications (dehiscence of reconstructed prepuce or secondary phimosis needing circumcision), but does not seem to increase the risk of urethroplasty complications, and the overall reoperation rate of hypospadias repair.

A 3-year-old boy presented with an asymptomatic intertesticular mass increasing in size. Plasma tumor markers ( α -fetoprotein and β -human chorionic gonadotrophin) were negative. The mass had a pattern similar to testicular parenchyma but no discernable blood flow on scrotal Doppler ultrasound. Magnetic resonance imaging scan showed that it reached the posterior urethra after passing through the right corpus cavernosum with a progressive tapering extending into the pelvis. The mass was excised surgically and histologically found to be consistent with a dermoid cyst. Such rare benign lesions should be considered in the differential diagnosis of painless scrotal masses in children. Its anatomy was accurately defined by magnetic resonance imaging and was essential to minimize the risk to adjacent structures.

From 2007 to date, fi ve boys with bladder exstrophy underwent this pre-emptive treatment of inguinal hernia at our institution. None has developed a recurrence after a median (range) follow-up of 29 (5 – 46) months. This approach avoids any manipulation of the inguinal canal, which is an advantage per se, but may be even more important in children with bladder exstrophy given the relatively high risk of hernia recurrence reported [ 1,2 ] . Furthermore, the presence of a pelvic diastasis makes the pelvic dissection of the cord easier than in normal children with a closed pelvic ring. The same procedure can also possibly be performed in children with a congenital inguinal hernia undergoing other procedures that require dissection of the perivesical space, e.g. ureteric re-implantation or ureterocoele repair.

PURPOSE: Upper pole histology has been poorly investigated in duplex system ectopic ureters and ureteroceles. We aimed to determine the differences in histology between the conditions, and to identify clinical markers of renal damage. METHODS: Twenty-two patients undergoing partial nephrectomy between 2001 and 2007 for poorly functioning upper poles associated with ectopic ureters (n = 11) or ureteroceles (n = 11) were considered. Histology was classified into three groups: normal, chronic interstitial nephritis (CIN), and dysplasia. Clinical and radiological variables were compared between the two conditions and between cases with normal and abnormal histology. RESULTS: Of the 22 upper pole specimens, 9 had normal histology, 8 dysplasia, and 5 CIN. Statistical analysis failed to show any significant difference in preoperative variables or histology between ectopic ureters and ureteroceles, and in preoperative variables between cases with normal and abnormal histology. CONCLUSIONS: We did not find significant differences in the histology of upper poles associated with ectopic ureters and ureteroceles. Histology was normal in more than one-third of patients, although the poles were poorly functioning. We hypothesize that these poles were hypoplasic rather than dysplasic. We failed to identify predictors of histological damage. Hence, the latter cannot be considered a factor guiding our decision-making.

High-voltage electrical burns on genitalia and perineal areas are very rare and only sporadic reports are available in the literature with often confusing diagnoses and inconspicuous treatment protocols. Although the surgical treatment of extremities lesions is well established and includes appropriate debridement, temporary wounds coverage, and final adequate soft-tissue reconstruction, management of genital lesions still remains controversial and challenging. The authors present a rare case of severe high-voltage electrical injury with involvement of upper extremities and complex lesions localized to the genitalia and perineal region. Treatment required a multidisciplinary approach including the plastic surgery and the urologic and andrologic teams. Language: en

Background/Purpose The aim of this study was to analyze the complication rate in male bladder exstrophy (BE) patients undergoing flap or graft urethroplasty for the repair of resultant hypospadias after epispadias repair. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the charts of 22 male BE patients who underwent 24 urethroplasties for resultant hypospadias between 2000 and 2009. Median patient age was 4.2 (range, 1.5-26.5) years, and median follow-up was 7.5 (range, 0.8-10.3) years. Meatal location after epispadias repair was midshaft in 6 cases and proximal shaft in 15. Complications were compared in relation to meatal position, type of urethroplasty (no graft vs graft), use of second-layer coverage of the urethroplasty, and use of suprapubic diversion. Results Overall, complications developed in 12 (50%) patients, including 10 urethrocutaneous fistulas and 2 urethroplasty dehiscence. Univariate analysis failed to show any differences between complicated and uncomplicated cases in all the variables. Only the 3 cases undergoing a 2-stage repair had fully successful outcomes. Conclusions Urethroplasty in patients with BE has a high complication rate. Quality of local tissue and presence of scarring are possibly the 2 major determinants of a poor outcome. A staged repair seems the safest, although this commits the patient to 2 procedures.

We describe an adolescent female patient born with a complex genitourinary malformation including bilateral duplex system and duplication of the müllerian structures (bicornuate uterus and septate vagina). She presented with a symptomatic hydrosalpinx. The typical imaging of this condition is described along with the issues associated with the differential diagnosis in this complex scenario. The diagnosis of hydrosaplinx should be suspected in patients with complex genitourinary malformations and a pelvic fluid collection. Associated genital and renal anomalies are noted in 30% of cases.

A portable and removable thoraco-pelvic orthosis for patient immobilization after neonatal primary bladder exstrophy closure is described. The device is made of a polyethylene shell, moulded at 170°C, coated inside with a 5 mm pad of plastazote and works applying a constant gentle pressure on the hips.

We assessed LUTS at least 12 months after RTx in patients without evidence of lower urinary tract dysfunction (non-urologic) that had been anuric for at least six months before RTx. No bladder recycling was performed before RTx. LUTS were evaluated using a questionnaire. Clinical records were also reviewed. LUTS in anuric patients were compared with those in non-anuric patients. Fourteen anuric patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Median age at RTx was 11 (5-21) yr, median duration of anuria before RTx 24 (7-46) months, and median post-RTx follow-up 2.7 (1.9-10.2) yr. Daytime symptoms were exceptional. Nocturia was the most common symptom (10 patients). Only one patient reported symptoms to affect her quality of life. One patient experienced a febrile UTI and none graft failure. LUTS (nocturia) proved unrelated to duration of anuria, length of follow-up, and presence of (nocturnal) polyuria. LUTS were not statistically different in patients anuric and non-anuric before RTx. Non-urologic patients suffer from long-term storage symptoms, particularly nocturia. LUTS, however, do not seem to increase the risks of urinary infections or graft failure and appear to occur irrespective of the presence of anuria before RTx. Bladder recycling before RTx seems unnecessary.

We evaluated erectile function in men born with classic bladder exstrophy using a validated instrument and compared results with those in age matched controls.A total of 28 patients born with bladder exstrophy were invited to self-administer an Italian version of the International Index of Erectile Function-15 to assess erectile and orgasmic function, sexual desire and satisfaction, and overall satisfaction. A score of 25 or less of 30 in the erectile function domain was considered diagnostic for erectile dysfunction. Scores in patients with bladder exstrophy were compared with scores in 38 normal controls who self-administered the same questionnaire.A total of 19 men (68%) with a median age of 27.1 years (range 18.3 to 41.2) returned the questionnaire, of whom 11 (58%) presented with erectile dysfunction compared to 9 (23%) age matched controls (p = 0.02). Erectile dysfunction was more common in patients with bladder exstrophy who underwent multiple continence surgeries. Orgasmic function was also significantly lower in patients with bladder exstrophy than in controls (p = 0.001). No difference was observed between the groups in the sexual desire, sexual satisfaction and overall satisfaction domains.Patients born with classic bladder exstrophy appear to have erectile dysfunction and decreased orgasmic function more commonly than normal controls, particularly when they underwent multiple continence surgeries. Sexual desire seems comparable to that of their peers. Eventually patients with bladder exstrophy seem to lead a sexual life that is as satisfactory as that of their peers.

To assess the influence of the method for stent placement, the duration of stenting, and the presence of bladder drainage on the complication rate of open pyeloplasty. Patients and methods: Complications were, retrospectively, compared in 228 consecutive open pyeloplasties performed at institution A using a trans-pyelostomic 6-Fr splint/stent for 5 days and no bladder drainage, and 150 consecutive open pyeloplasties performed at institution B using a trans-nephrostomic 6-Fr splint/stent for 9 days plus bladder drainage. Results: Median age at surgery was comparable between groups. The overall complication rate was 13% and was comparable at the two institutions, but for the presence of perioperative bleeding that was more common when the stent was placed trans-nephrostomically (institution B) and the rate of stent dislodgements, which was lower at institution A, perhaps due to some technical details aiming to prevent any inadvertent traction on the stent. Additional procedures, such as double J internal stent insertion, were required in

Purpose to report the early experience with the Kelly procedure for the treatment of bladder exstrophy (BE) in males.

OBJECTIVE. We examined the diagnostic accuracy of routine imaging studies (ultrasonography and micturating cystography) for predicting long-term parenchymal renal damage after a first febrile urinary tract infection.METHODS. This study addressed the secondary objective of a prospective trial evaluating different antibiotic regimens for the treatment of acute pyelonephritis. Data for 300 children ≤2 years of age, with normal prenatal ultrasound results, who completed the diagnostic follow-up evaluation (ultrasonography and technetium-99m-dimercaptosuccinic acid scanning within 10 days, cystography within 2 months, and repeat technetium-99m-dimercaptosuccinic acid scanning at 12 months to detect scarring) were analyzed. Outcome measures were sensitivity, specificity, and negative and positive predictive values for ultrasonography and cystography in predicting parenchymal renal damage on the 12-month technetium-99m-dimercaptosuccinic acid scans.RESULTS. The kidneys and urinary tracts were mostly normal. The acute technetium-99m-dimercaptosuccinic acid scans showed pyelonephritis in 54% of cases. Renal scarring developed in 15% of cases. The ultrasonographic and cystographic findings were poor predictors of long-term damage, showing minor sonographic abnormalities for 12 and reflux for 23 of the 45 children who subsequently developed scarring.CONCLUSIONS. The benefit of performing ultrasonography and scintigraphy in the acute phase or cystourethrography is minimal. Our findings support (1) technetium-99m-dimercaptosuccinic acid scintigraphy 6 months after infection to detect scarring that may be related to long-term hypertension, proteinuria, and renal function impairment (although the degree of scarring was generally minor and did not impair renal function) and (2) continued surveillance to identify recurrent urinary tract infections that may warrant further investigation.

Objective To present a modified VQZ-plasty technique to create a catheterizable stoma appearing as a normal-looking neoumbilicus that may be used in selected bladder exstrophy (BE) patients. Methods A catheterizable conduit is created according to the Mitrofanoff principle. An asymmetric V flap, with the base at the level selected as the upper margin of the neoumbilicus, is created and incorporated into the spatulated appendix. Then a Q flap is developed parallel to the shorter margin of the V flap, rotated, and anastomosed to the upper edge of the appendix and to the free margin of the V flap on the contralateral side. The skin gap is filled by a rotational flap overlying the emerging appendix and stoma site. Results To date the technique has been used in 2 BE patients. After a follow-up of 10 and 6 months, respectively, both have good cosmetic and functional results, with an easily catheterizable stoma. Conclusions The described technique allows for the creation of a nearly ideal stoma that looks like a normal neoumbilicus in selected BE patients yet without an umbilicus and requiring the placement of a catheterizable conduit.

Purpose Penile amputation in children is rare. If the amputated organ cannot be salvaged, standard treatment options include sex reassignment or creation of a penoid with a musculocutaneous flap. We describe our experience with phallic reconstruction after amputation. Methods Between 2005 and 2007, we observed 3 patients with penile amputation. All presented a flat pubic scar and a severe urethral stricture for which urinary diversion had been performed in two. The first step of the procedure was penile augmentation. The latter included dissection and advancement of the residual erectile tissue by either division of the suspensory ligament (n = 2) or detachment of the corpora cavernosa from the pubic bones. Then, meatal advancement was attempted and combined with a staged oral mucosa urethroplasty, if necessary. Finally, skin coverage was achieved using local flaps (n = 2) or a free graft harvested from the inguinal region. In 2 patients, a pseudoglans was sculptured from the pubic scar. Results In no case the procedure could be performed in a single stage. In one patient, 2 additional cosmetic revisions were required. Good penile augmentation was achieved in all the 3 cases. All patients presented at least nocturnal erections and reported to be satisfied with the cosmetic results. Conclusions Our experience suggests that an attempt to phallic reconstruction by retrieval of any residual erectile tissue might be worthwhile before embarking on a penile replacement. In a few cases, this may allow recreation of a penis with good cosmesis and function.

It is controversial as to whether osteotomy, by restoring a more normal pelvic anatomy, might improve the final outcome of bladder exstrophy (BE) repairs. We compared the functional orthopaedic and urological outcomes in BE patients treated with and without osteotomy. Orthopaedic and urological outcomes were compared in eight BE patients treated with osteotomy and six BE patients treated without osteotomy. Orthopaedic evaluation included an assessment of pubic bones dissymmetry, bending of the spine, presence of Trendelenburg or Thomas sign, and presence of out-toeing. Pubic diastasis was ruled out on a plain X-ray of the pelvis. A Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America (POSNA) questionnaire was administered to every child or his/her caregiver to assess functional outcome. Urological evaluation included an assessment of required continence surgeries and of contemporary continence status. All patients presented a pubic diastasis. This was in median 49 (24-66) mm in patients treated without osteotomy and 42 (25-101) mm in those treated with osteotomy (p = 0.3). There was no difference either in the orthopaedic outcome or in any features of the POSNA questionnaire between groups. Neither was there a difference in the final continence rate nor in the number of additional continence procedures required. Although osteotomy is an essential step in the treatment of many BE patients in order to achieve a tension-free closure of the abdominal wall and bladder, our preliminary results suggest that it does not improve the eventual orthopaedic or urological outcomes of BE.

Summary Introduction The bladder exstrophy–epispadias complex (BEEC) represents a spectrum of malformations that affect the anatomical and functional structure of the urogenital system. The parents of patients affected by this condition are subject to particularly stressful situations, such as worrying about their child's health, long hospital stays, concerns about the health and constant need for personal care for their children, that can profoundly compromise the quality of family life. Objective The objective of this explorative qualitative study is to evaluate the social situation and the psychological strategies implemented by the mothers of children between 6 and 10 years of age who are affected by BEEC. Study design Fourteen mothers of children aged 6–10 years and affected by BEEC (9 boys and 5 girls) were interviewed. Data on the mothers' experiences were collected through semi-structured interviews (Table). Results The qualitative analysis of the interviews showed that participants described experiences that were characterised by emotions such as fear and anger. Each mother had implemented a different and, sometimes, dysfunctional strategy in order to cope with the complex situation of the son/daughter. The aspects that most clearly emerged from mothers' descriptions were (1) the traumatic situation at the birth of the baby, (2) the sense of embarrassment concerning the pathological condition as the child was growing and the consequent sense of isolation of the mother, and (3) the fluctuation of feelings towards the multidisciplinary staff, which was sometimes seen as an important source of help and some other times as too destabilising and not helpful at all. Discussion The study provided some insight into the psychological and social conditions experienced by mothers of children with BEEC, which could serve as a basis for developing multidisciplinary teams with greater awareness about families living with this condition and better timing in addressing their needs. Conclusions Mothers of children with BEEC show emotional and social difficulties. This is a crucial aspect to consider when planning a multidisciplinary approach to the treatment/therapy, especially considering that children examined in this study are approaching adolescence. Table . Semi-structured interview topic. Number of questions 1 Impact of the diagnosis 4 2 Relationship with the medical team 2 3 Relationship with the partner 4 4 Social life: relationship with colleagues at work, relatives and friends 4

Female gender has been assigned to 46,XY newborns affected by aphallia, possibly resulting in subsequent gender dysphoria. Prenatal and postnatal effects of the androgens on the brain and sexual orientation cannot be modified later. Therefore, patients affected by aphallia should be raised as males. Because definitive forearm flap phalloplasty is generally not recommended before puberty, we performed a preliminary penile reconstruction during childhood in 4 patients.Four patients with aphallia who had no sex reassignment at birth were treated at age 9, 17 and 36 months, and 12 years in a single operation. The urethral channel was dissected through an anterior-sagittal-transanorectal approach, and then phalloplasty and urethroplasty were carried out using an abdominal skin flap and a bladder/buccal mucosa free graft.Immediate postoperative outcome was excellent in all the patients. One patient had excellent functional and cosmetic results at 5 years, while 2 had a partial dorsal urethral dehiscence resulting in an epispadiac urethra at 2 years, and 1 had necrosis of the distal urethra and was voiding through a scrotal urethrostomy at 9 months postoperatively. Phalloplasty survived and provided an adequate male appearance in all patients.Opposite gender should not be assigned in patients affected by penile agenesis, who are better raised according to their karyotype and hormonal production. Definitive phalloplasty in adults may achieve good results. Nevertheless, this procedure is generally performed in postpubertal boys and it is not easily available everywhere. Therefore, we believe that social and psychological concerns justified this type of phalloplasty as a palliative preliminary procedure in 3 of our patients. In those countries where definitive forearm phalloplasty is not available our method may also be justified in older children (as in 1 of our patients) as an attempt at a definitive procedure.

We performed a case-control study in children diagnosed by the first episode of upper urinary tract infection with or without vesicoureteral reflux to evaluate the association of functional polymorphism of interleukin-8 (-251AT and +2767AG), and its receptor CXCR1 (+2607GC).Genomic DNA was obtained from 265 children with a clinical and laboratory diagnosis of urinary tract infection who were recruited in northeast Italy. The children were subdivided as 173 who were dimercapto-succinic acid scan positive with positive static renal scintigraphy in acute conditions, consistent with the diagnosis of acute pyelonephritis, and 92 who were dimercapto-succinic acid scan negative. Genetic analysis for the same polymorphisms was also extended to a control population of 106 umbilical cord DNA samples.Statistical analysis of genotype data showed that 1) the tested populations were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, 2) there were significant differences between the dimercapto-succinic acid scan positive and negative groups (p=0.049), and the dimercapto-succinic acid scan positive group vs controls (p=0.032) in terms of interleukin-8 -251AT polymorphism frequency, 3) there was also a significant difference in the distribution of IL-8 -251AT and +2767AG polymorphisms between dimercapto-succinic acid scan positive and negative children in the subgroup without vesicoureteral reflux (p=0.03 and 0.02, respectively) and 4) no significant differences were found in the frequency of the distribution of CXCR1 +2607GC polymorphism in all groups.These data suggest that the gene for the proinflammatory chemokine interleukin-8 is involved in susceptibility to acute pyelonephritis during upper urinary tract infection in children with or without vesicoureteral reflux.

A lower urinary tract fistula consist in an abnormal connection between bladder, urethra and adjacent abdominal organs or skin. There are several types of urinary fistulas in paediatric age and they may be congenital or acquired. Etiology may be due to embriological defects, infectious processes, malignant tumours, pelvic irradiation as well as complications following surgical procedures, expecially postsurgical repair of hypospadia or epispadia. Clinical presentation depends on the type of fistula and diagnosis is based on signs, symptoms and radiological or endoscopic examinations. We performed PubMed research using terms such as lower urinary fistulae, urology and paediatrics and we consulted medical texts. We reviewed selected articles and used the relevant ones to perform our study concentrating on classification, diagnosis and treatment of different types of fistulas. Paediatric lower urinary fistulas are an uncommon pathology, but the knowledge of their etiology and classification is important to recognise them and lead the physician to an appropriate treatment, which is surgical in most cases.

An 18-year-old boy, followed up after seminal-sparing cystectomy for bladder rhabdomyosarcoma, presented complaining of recurrent episodes of left scrotal/inguinal pain arising after orgasms. Full work-up ruled out disease recurrence, but showed enlarged seminal vesicles. Ligation of the vas deferens was unsuccessful. The patient was started on α-blockers to reduce vas contractions with improvement of symptoms. The possible pathophysiology and treatments of this symptom are discussed.

Ureteral ectopia and ureterocele are the most common conditions associated with the upper pole of a duplex system, whereas primary vesicoureteral reflux and ureteropelvic junction obstruction with the lower pole. Asymptomatic infants with a duplex system associated with ureteral dilatation in any moiety should be started on antibiotic prophylaxis and undergo a basic workup including ultrasound scan of the urinary tract, voiding cystourethrography, and diuretic renography. Additional imaging may be useful when anatomical information is still necessary at the end of the basic workup. Management of lower pole conditions does not differ essentially from the corresponding condition in a single system. In case of ectopic ureters, we favor a dismembered extravesical reimplantation of the upper pole ureter. In case of ureterocele, conservative management can be offered to selected patients. Otherwise, endoscopic decompression is generally our first choice, but in patients with big ureteroceles and severe upper tract hydroureteronephrosis, upper pole partial nephrectomy seems a more effective procedure. In our experience, irrespective of the primary approach, once effective ureterocele decompression is achieved, recurrent febrile urinary tract infections are rare, and so is the need for further surgical procedures.

Summary Introduction Urothelial bladder neoplasms (UBN) typically occur in patients in their sixth or seventh decade of life while they are infrequent in children and young adults. They occur in 0.1–0.4% of the population in the first two decades of life. Their management is controversial and paediatric guidelines are currently unavailable. Objective To further expound the available data on the outcome of patients younger than 18 year old diagnosed with UBN. Study design We retrospectively reviewed the files of all the consecutive paediatric patients with UBN treated in three tertiary paediatric urology units from January 1999 to July 2013. Lesions were classified according to the 2004 WHO/ISUP criteria as urothelial papillomas (UP), papillary urothelial neoplasm of low malignant potential (PUNLMP), low-grade urothelial carcinoma (LGUC), and high-grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC). Results The table shows the results. No. of pt 18 Sex Males 9 Age at diagnosis Mean (range) yr 11 (3–17) Presenting symptom Gross haematuria 16 Workup imaging Ultrasound (US) 14 US + CT scan 3 Lesion size Mean (range) mm 16.7 (5–50) Intravescical location Lateral wall 4 Posterior wall 6 Para-ureteral Meatus 8 Surgical treatment Trans-urethral resection of bladder (TURB) 18 Additional treatments Intravesical instillation Mitomycin-C 1 Histology UP 8 PUNLMP 8 LGUC 1 HGUC 1 Management after TURB varied among centres. One centre recommended only follow-up US at increasing intervals whereas another follow-up US plus urine cytologies and endoscopies, every three months in the first year, and at increasing intervals thereafter. After a median follow-up of 5 years (range 9 months–14.5 years), none of the patients showed disease recurrence or progression. Discussion UBN is an uncommon condition in children and adolescents and, unlike in adults, its incidence, follow-up and outcome still controversial. Paediatric guidelines are currently lacking and management varies among centres. Gross painless haematuria is the most common presenting symptom. Therefore, this symptom should never be underestimated. US is generally the first investigation and additional imaging seems unnecessary. TURB often allows for complete resection. Lesions are generally solitary, non-muscle invasive, and low-grade (mainly UP and PUNLMP). Ideal follow-up protocol is the most controversial point. Reportedly, recurrence or progression during follow-up is uncommon in patients under 20 years, recurrence rate 7% and a single case of progression reported so far. Accordingly, a follow-up mainly based on serial US might be considered in this age group compared to adults where also serial endoscopies and urine cytologies are recommended. In the selection of the follow-up investigations, it should also be taken into consideration that urine cytology has a low sensibility in the detection of low-grade lesions while cystoscopy in young patients requires a general anaesthesia and hospitalization, and carries an increased risk of urethral manipulation. Conclusion UBN is a rare condition in children. Ultrasound is generally accurate in order to visualize the lesion, and TURB can treat the condition. Lesions are generally low-grade and non-muscle invasive, but high-grade lesions can also be detected. In present series, after TURB, follow-up US monitoring at increasing intervals was used at all centres, follow-up cystoscopies were added in two centres, but with different schedules. Urine cytologies were considered only at one centre. After a median follow-up of 5 years (range 9 months–14.5 years), none of the patients showed recurrence or progression of the disease.

We report a case of fused testes in a patient with transverse testicular ectopia and persistent Mullerian duct syndrome. A laparoscopy performed to confirm the diagnosis showed a single vas deferens on the left side. Treatment included excision of the Mullerian remnant through a left inguinal incision and orchidopexy of the fused testes via the left inguinal canal after sectioning of the right internal spermatic vessels. Follow-up ultrasound has so far confirmed viability of both testes.

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 24 consecutive patients undergoing treatment for ureteral complications after RTx in the period 2001-2012 to determine the timing of presentation of the complications, and their open or endoscopic management. Three patients (12%) had a necrosis of the transplanted ureter soon after RTx. All required open urinary diversion in a native ureter. Ten cases (42%) developed ureteral obstruction. Time of presentation was variable mainly in relation to the underlying cause. Endoscopic treatment was successful in two cases with urinary stones and open surgery in two with mid-ureteral obstruction. Six patients had VUJ stenosis, three underwent open reimplantation, whereas temporary double-J stent placement was successfully performed in the remainder. Eleven patients (46%) had VUR. It seldom presented in the first year after RTx. Endoscopic treatment was attempted in all and was successful in all the six cases without vs. only one of the five with lower urinary tract pathology (p = 0.01). Endoscopic treatment is an option in patients with VUR in the absence of lower urinary tract pathology. It is an option also for the treatment of stones and can be attempted in case of VUJ stenosis. Ureteral necrosis always requires open treatment.

PURPOSE: We determined the oncologic and urological outcomes in patients with bladder/prostate rhabdomyosarcoma according to the type and timing of urinary tract surgery, with emphasis on the role of the Padua orthotopic ileal neobladder. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed oncologic and urological outcomes of 11 consecutive patients treated at our institution between 1998 and 2012. RESULTS: Two patients underwent urethrectomy and placement of a heterotopic catheterizable ileal neobladder. The membranous urethra was preserved in 9 patients, 6 underwent primary Padua ileal neobladder at radical cystectomy, 2 underwent delayed Padua ileal neobladder and 1 underwent bilateral cutaneous ureterostomy. Four of these 9 patients experienced disease recurrence, including local recurrence in 2 despite negative intraoperative biopsies. Survivors undergoing heterotopic catheterizable ileal neobladder or primary Padua ileal neobladder learned to empty the bladder to completion without long-term upper tract deterioration. Both cases managed by delayed Padua ileal neobladder required clean intermittent catheterization eventually. Erections were reported in 5 of 6 surviving males. CONCLUSIONS: The Padua ileal neobladder allowed preservation of volitional urethral voiding in all survivors in whom it was placed at radical cystectomy. Nevertheless, local recurrence was noted in 2 of the 9 cases where the membranous urethra was preserved. By comparison, patients undergoing delayed Padua ileal neobladder after attaining disease-free status never achieved voiding per urethra. Therefore, a heterotopic reservoir might be a more reliable choice under these circumstances. Erectile function is preserved in the majority of cases.

OBJECTIVE: We assessed outcomes and need for secondary surgery after primary trans-urethral puncture (TUP) or upper pole partial nephrectomy (UPPN) in duplex system ureterocele (DSU) patients undergoing management that disregards vesicoureteral reflux and upper pole function. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Between 2003 and 2010, 41 DSU

Objective: The EEC exstrophy-epispadias complex represents a spectrum of malformations with an incidence of 1/35,000 live births occurring at varying degrees of bladder exstrophy and anatomical-functional alterations of the external genitalia. The appearance of the psycho sexual development has a significant role on the growth of an independent adult self. To compare the presence of alexithymia or depressive traits, difficulties in sexual assertiveness and / or in sex-lives and the life quality in people with EEC with a cohort consisting of unaffected peers. Design and Method: The retrospective case-control observational study included a cohort of EEC cases and a cohort of control groups of subjects not suffering from any urogenital malformation. The criteria for inclusion of cases: confirmed diagnosis of EEC, age>16 years; sex M-F; completion of informed consent and privacy forms. The inclusion criteria of the controls: the absence of any urogenital malformation, age>16; sex M-F; completion of informed consent and privacy forms. The following questionnaires were administered to 35 cases and 35 controls: BDI-II, TAS-20, SF-36, SHF, SAQ. Results: A significant presence of alexitmia and depressive traits has been highlighted in the case cohort. The life quality in the cases score lower in both physical health and mental health compared to the control cohort; while the sex life experiences of the EEC cases significantly differ from the controls also in terms of sexual assertiveness in all four sub-cases Conclusions: The findings raise awareness on the implementation of interventions aimed at improving the verbalization of emotions, the support of depressive discomfort, and sexual assertiveness.

Purpose We report the results in patients with obstructed upper pole ectopic ureters in duplex systems undergoing dismembered extravesical reimplantation of the upper pole ureter alone. Methods Between 01/2007 and 03/2012, 11 patients with an upper pole ectopic ureter (1 bilateral) diagnosed following the antenatal detection of hydronephrosis and showing preserved function on renal scintigraphy in a dilated upper moiety, underwent a dismembered reimplantation of the ectopic upper pole ureter as follows. The ureter was identified, separated from the lower pole ureter, and divided just above the bladder. The distal stump was suture closed, while the proximal segment was mobilized, tapered as necessary, and reimplanted using an extravesical technique. Results Twelve ectopic ureters were reimplanted. Median (range) patient age at surgery was 8 (3–48) months. Ureteral tapering was performed in 11 ureters, by infolding in 9 and using an excisional tailoring in the single case undergoing bilateral reimplantation. After a median (range) follow-up of 17 (6–50) months, all patients were asymptomatic. Eleven reimplanted ureters showed improving hydroureteronephrosis, no obstruction on diuretic scintigraphy, and no evidence of reflux on indirect radionuclide cystography. One reimplanted ureter developed worsening hydroureteronephrosis after excisional tailoring of the ureter and partial nephrectomy was performed. Conclusions Extravesical reimplantation of the upper pole ureter is an option in dilated upper pole ectopic ureters with good function. Separating the upper and lower pole ureters proximally to the bladder does not jeopardize the ureteral blood supply and allows leaving the lower pole ureter undisturbed. Excisional ureteral tailoring should be avoided.

Observation is a conservative management option in infants with nonrefluxing hydronephrosis, primary nonrefluxing megaureter and ureterocele diagnosed postnatally following antenatal detection of hydronephrosis. Antibiotic prophylaxis might be a sensible regimen under these circumstances to prevent UTI in this population who are potentially at increased risk. However, studies examining the efficacy of prophylactic antibiotics are sparse in this setting. For each condition, prophylactic policies seem extremely variable, and UTI rates vary widely with comparable rates reported between patients followed on and off antibiotics. Overall, antibiotic prophylaxis seems unnecessary in patients with isolated low-grade hydronephrosis. Patients with high-grade nonrefluxing hydronephrosis seem at increased risk of UTI, with risk further increasing in patients with associated ureteral dilatation (hydroureteronephrosis) irrespective of the presence of a ureterocele. Obstruction might be an additional independent risk factor, but the diagnosis of obstruction is often possible only in retrospect. The data available suggest that infants are the most at risk of UTI during the first 6 months of life, particularly if they undergo catheterization during workup examinations. Thus, antibiotic prophylaxis might be prudent during the first 6-12 months of life in patients with high-grade hydronephrosis and hydroureteronephrosis with or without ureterocele, and particularly before completion of the diagnostic workup. Paediatric urologists are urged to embark on controlled trials to compare patients followed with and without antibiotic prophylaxis.

Objectives To describe a modified onlay preputial island flap (OIF) urethroplasty to also be used in patients requiring urethral plate transection for penile straightening. Methods A total of 14 cases with primary severe hypospadias underwent the modified OIF urethroplasty as follows. After skin degloving, the corpora cavernosa were dissected ventrally. The urethral plate was mobilized and, if curvature >30° persisted, transected just proximally to the coronal sulcus. A pedicled preputial island flap was elevated and placed as an onlay to create the neourethra. It was sewn to the margins of the urethral plate proximally and distally. In contrast, in the portion of the shaft without a plate, it was sewn directly to the albuginea of the corpora cavernosa with 2 parallel suture lines. Glanuloplasty and skin closure followed as in standard onlay repairs. Results After a median follow-up of 7 months (range 5 to 27), 3 patients (21%) developed complications requiring additional surgery (1 simple fistula, 1 partial urethroplasty breakdown, and 1 ballooning of the neourethra). None of the remaining patients presented with residual curvature or voiding problems, according to the parental report. Conclusions The results of the present preliminary experience suggest that OIF urethroplasty can also be performed in cases requiring urethral plate transection. It can be accomplished by suturing the preputial flap directly to the albuginea of the corpora cavernosa. Although we acknowledge that a larger number of cases and longer follow-up are necessary, we believe this technique should be incorporated into the armamentarium of hypospadiologists.

Study Objective To report our experience with surgical management of gynecological issues in postpubertal female patients born with classic bladder exstrophy (BE). Design Retrospective review of clinical charts. Setting Tertiary pediatric urology unit. Participants 16 postpubertal female BE patients. Interventions Cosmetic surgery to the external genitalia, widening of vaginal introitus, and treatment of pelvic organ prolapse. Main Outcome Measures patient satisfaction and additional gynecological problems during follow-up. Results Eight cases (14–43 years old) underwent cosmetic procedures. All resulted in improved cosmesis, but one case complained of reduced erogenous sensitivity after clitoridoplasty. Five cases (17–20 years old) underwent widening of the vaginal introitus. The modification was as short as possible to avoid any foreshortening of the dorsal vaginal wall. Three cases 33-45 years old presented with pelvic organ prolapse. All were sexually active. One had already given birth. All the three had previously been submitted elsewhere to a posterior vaginal cutback and one to hysterectomy. Two are still awaiting further treatment due to recurrent prolapse. Conclusion Female BE patients can seek advice to improve the appearance of the external genitalia at any ages. Clidoridoplasty should be considered carefully, because it may harm erogenous sensitivity. Problems with the vaginal introitus typically present at around 20 years of age, probably when BE patients become sexually active. Opening too widely the introitus can cause a foreshortening of the posterior vaginal wall, predisposing to pelvic organ prolapse. Treatment of pelvic organ prolapse is difficult.

We assessed LUTS at least 12 months after RTx in patients without evidence of lower urinary tract dysfunction (non-urologic) that had been anuric for at least six months before RTx. No bladder recycling was performed before RTx. LUTS were evaluated using a questionnaire. Clinical records were also reviewed. LUTS in anuric patients were compared with those in non-anuric patients. Fourteen anuric patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Median age at RTx was 11 (5-21) yr, median duration of anuria before RTx 24 (7-46) months, and median post-RTx follow-up 2.7 (1.9-10.2) yr. Daytime symptoms were exceptional. Nocturia was the most common symptom (10 patients). Only one patient reported symptoms to affect her quality of life. One patient experienced a febrile UTI and none graft failure. LUTS (nocturia) proved unrelated to duration of anuria, length of follow-up, and presence of (nocturnal) polyuria. LUTS were not statistically different in patients anuric and non-anuric before RTx. Non-urologic patients suffer from long-term storage symptoms, particularly nocturia. LUTS, however, do not seem to increase the risks of urinary infections or graft failure and appear to occur irrespective of the presence of anuria before RTx. Bladder recycling before RTx seems unnecessary.

To evaluate urinary function in patients with distal hypospadias undergoing repair by the tubularized incised-plate urethroplasty (TIP or Snodgrass), compare the results with those in patients treated by the Mathieu technique, and show the potential issues inherent to the evaluation of such results. A cross-sectional assessment was performed of uncomplicated distal hypospadias operated on during a 3-year period, already toilet trained, and able to void volitionally. Evaluation included clinical assessment urinary symptoms and urinary stream, and uroflowmetry. Out of 83 patients operated on during the study period, 10 (12%) developed complication and 32 were not toilet trained or refused to participate in the study. Median follow-up in the remaining 41 patients included in the study was 20 (3–36) months. None of these patients presented voiding symptoms or urinary stream abnormalities. Uroflowmetry was normal in 30 cases and obstructive in 11 (27%). An obstructive flow pattern was more common in patients undergoing TIP versus Mathieu repair, 8 of 19 (42%) versus 3 of 22 (14%), respectively (P = 0.07). Four TIP cases with an obstructive uroflow pattern were managed conservatively. Although both the TIP and the Mathieu repair allow good results in terms of urinary function after distal hypospadias repairs, the TIP technique seems more likely to be associated with urine flow pattern abnormalities. The actual clinical relevance of this finding remains ill defined.

We evaluated the association between MCP-1, CCR2, RANTES, and CCR5 gene polymorphisms and upper urinary tract infection in 273 children recruited in Northeast Italy. Statistical analysis of RANTES-403 G>A genotype frequencies showed that children carrying the RANTES-403 G allele are at higher risk for urinary tract infection, irrespective of vesicoureteral reflux.

to report the early experience with the Kelly procedure for the treatment of bladder exstrophy (BE) in males.Nine boys with BE were treated at our institute. One had an untouched BE, four had epispadias after neonatal bladder closure, and four were secondary phalloplasties. Data on surgical complications, continence status, presence of erections and parental satisfaction with penile appearance and length are reported.Mean patient age was 4.7 (1-8.9) years. No intra-operative complications occurred. Two secondary cases experienced formation of a bladder-neck fistula and glans ischemia, respectively. The latter led to glans loss. All the patients had some residual degree of hypospadias after surgery. After a median follow-up of 18.1 (10-22) months, one patient developed chronic bladder outlet obstruction. Overall, five patients are dry (including two on clear intermittent catheterization and one with a Minz II pouch). The other four are still younger than 3 years, all have spontaneous micturitions and dry interval between 30 and 120 min. Of the eight patients without phalloplasty complications, all had erections, and parents judged the penile length and appearance as being satisfactory in six cases.The Kelly procedure is feasible in a vast array of BE patients, but may be formidable, especially in secondary phalloplasties. It allows for complete reconfiguration and lightening of the penis, but exposes to potentially catastrophic complications, such as partial or complete penile loss. Longer follow-up is needed to assess the results in terms of continence.

We report a comprehensive review of our experience with labial mucosa graft urethroplasty to evaluate the indications for this kind of substitution urethroplasty, and the possible complications and risk factors for an untoward recipient site outcome both in children and adults. Complications were retrospectively assessed by chart review. Patients with and without complications were compared with respect to age at surgery, indication for surgery (epispadias vs. hypospadias vs. urethral stricture), graft length and configuration (tube vs. patch). Moreover, in cases with urethral stricture a comparison was made according to the level of the stricture (penile vs. bulbar). After a median follow-up of 36 (6–90) months, the overall success rate was 66%. Complications were observed in 39 (34%) patients, of whom 18 (16%) required additional surgical procedures. Complications appeared to be unrelated to patient age at surgery, indication for surgery, graft length, and the urethral level of the stricture. Use of the graft as a tube was the single factor significantly more frequent in patients experiencing complications, particularly in the urethral defects associated with hypospadias where use of a tube corresponded to an odd ratio of 5.86 (95% CI 1.5–23.4). Oral grafts harvested from the lower lip are a versatile tissue for the repair of urethral defects associated with either urethral malformations or strictures, both in children and adults. Use of the graft as an on-lay seems preferable particularly in hypospadias repairs.