Enterocystoplasties: results in 22 children

A study of paediatric enterocystoplasty in 22 children of 1 to 14 years of age (M = 8) during 5 years is presented. The diagnoses were: neurogenic bladder 16 (73%), extrophic bladder 3, urethral valves 1, and complex uropathies 2. The intestinal segments used were: ileum 12 cases, sigmoid 8, and ileocaecal region 2 (non myelodisplastic). During the last years sigmoid have been preferred due to its bigger size. The middle follow up is 3.5 years (R 1-6). The results have been good in: renal function 86%, and upper urinary tract 95%. Bladder capacity was 278% higher, bladder pressure was 82% less, and residual urine was 217% more, than preoperatively. Five children developed 6 complications (23%), and 4 reinterventions were performed (18%). When it is indicated, paediatric enterocystoplasty is a good alternative to urinary diversion, and it is useful to prevent the upper urinary tract deterioration; but a frequent and, all the life long follow up is necessary, due to its possible complications.