The risk and risk factors of contralateral reflux following repair of simple unilateral primary reflux.

Abstract

A population of patients undergoing unilateral antireflux surgery for simple primary reflux was studied to determine the rate and possible mechanism of new onset contralateral reflux postoperatively. A total of 107 patients with simple primary reflux were evaluated as to the surgical outcome, possible risk factors and appearance of new contralateral reflux. Contralateral reflux appeared in 7% of this study population, and 3% ultimately had the contralateral ureter reimplanted. Risk factors appear to include younger age at initial repair, number of cystograms performed and presence or development of dysfunctional voiding. New contralateral reflux following unilateral reimplantation has a low incidence. Risk factors exist that when controlled or treated might even further lower the incidence of contralateral reflux and improve treatment outcome.