Abstract
Purpose:To evaluate our results of anti-reflux surgery and determine the best time for surgery in infants with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).
Materials and methods: We report on 41 consecutive patients of VUR under one year of age (male 41, female 1), who underwent open anti-reflux surgery between August 1988 and March 2005. A retrospective evaluation was performed for clinical manifestations, relation of VUR grade to renal dysfunction, indication of surgical intervention and surgical outcomes.
Results: VUR was discovered during an evaluation for a urinary tract infection in 38 of 41 patients(93%). In 6 of them a breakthrough infection occurred. In two patients it was discovered during an evaluation for anal atresia, and in one for prenatal hydronephrosis. The higher the VUR grade was(usually over grade 4), the more severe the renal dysfunction was. The success rate of anti-reflux surgery was 97% in the first 6 months and became 100% in 2 years.
Conclusion: Anti-reflux surgery should be performed as soon as possible for infants with high grade VUR(usually over grade 4) and for infants with grade 3 VUR accompanied by breakthrough infection.
