Long-term results of ureterosigmoidostomy in children with bladder exstrophy.

Abstract

We evaluated long-term results of patients with bladder exstrophy who underwent ureterosigmoidostomy. Of 4 women and 23 men monitored at our institution 16 (59%) underwent primary diversion by ureterosigmoidostomy, while 11 (41%) underwent primary bladder closure or an ileal conduit procedure before conversion to ureterosigmoidostomy. Average followup after ureterosigmoidostomy was 17 years. Significant upper urinary tract changes developed in 18% of the patients. Metabolic acidosis was well compensated in most patients but 2 had problems with urinary retention leading to hyperammonemia and acidosis. Of the 19 patients monitored with biennial colonoscopy benign polyps were removed in 4. Daytime continence was achieved in 92% of cases and nighttime continence in 58%. Our experience with ureterosigmoidostomy in children with bladder exstrophy has been favorable through long-term followup. With proper imaging, metabolic surveillance, biennial colonoscopy and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs we offer ureterosigmoidostomy as a viable alternative for patients with small bladders.