Cystostomy button for bladder drainage in children.

Abstract

The "button" enteral feeding systems are widely used as a gastrostomy. We describe our use of this device to facilitate bladder drainage in children. We prospectively reviewed all patients who underwent insertion of a cystostomy button between 2002 and 2005. Indications and complications were analyzed. A total of 17 children (8 female, 9 male) with a mean age of 7.1 years underwent insertion of a cystostomy button during the 4-year period. Mean followup was 16 months (range 2 to 40). Cases selected included those with a neuropathic bladder, prune belly syndrome, previous major bladder neck surgery and those unsuitable for Mitrofanoff stoma formation. Complications included 1 wound infection treated with antibiotics. Four children had leakage from the cystostomy site that was successfully treated with a change in button size, and 14 buttons remain in situ. Button cystostomy is a safe and effective form of bladder drainage in children. It is a good alternative to standard suprapubic drainage and it gives children an improved quality of life.