Botulinum toxin-A (Botox®) intradetrusor injections in children with neurogenic detrusor overactivity/neurogenic overactive bladder: A systematic literature review

ObjectivesDescribe and discuss the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) intradetrusor injections in children with neurogenic detrusor overactivity (NDO) and urinary incontinence or overactive bladder symptoms of neurogenic origin (NOAB).MethodsA MEDLINE and EMBASE search for clinical studies involving BTX-A injected into the detrusor of children with NDO or NOAB was performed, prior to data analysis.ResultsA total of six articles evaluating the efficacy and safety of Botox^® in patients with NDO and incontinence/NOAB were selected. The underlying neurological disease was myelomeningocele in 93% of patients. Most were over 2 years of age. The most common amount of Botox injected was 10–12 U/kg with a maximal dose of 300 U, usually as 30 injections of 10 U/ml in the bladder (excluding the trigone) under cystoscopic guidance and general anaesthesia. Most of the studies reported a significant improvement in clinical (65–87% became completely dry) as well as urodynamic (in most studies mean maximum detrusor pressure was reduced to <40 cm H₂O and compliance was increased >20 ml/cm H₂O) variables, without major adverse events.ConclusionsBotox injections into the detrusor provide a clinically significant improvement and seem to be very well tolerated in children with NDO and incontinence/NOAB refractory to antimuscarinics.     

Comparative efficacy and safety of extended-release and instant-release tolterodine in children with neural tube defects having cystometric abnormalities

AimTo evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of extended-release (ER) and instant-release (IR) tolterodine preparations in a pediatric population with neural tube defects having cystometric abnormalities.Materials and methodsTwenty-five patients with neural tube defects and a similar demographic profile underwent a routine hemogram, liver function tests, renal function tests, urine culture, X-ray lumbo-sacral spine, and renal and bladder ultrasound. Vesicoureteric reflux was diagnosed by micturating cystourethrogram under fluoroscopy. Dimercaptosuccinic acid renal scintigraphy was performed to study the presence or absence of renal scars. Patients were treated with tolterodine ER (Group I: 2 mg once daily for 21 days) and tolterodine IR (Group II: 2 mg twice daily for 21 day) in a cross-over study with a 10-day washout period between administrations. Evaluation was by subjective assessment, visual analog scale, urodynamic assessment and adverse drug reaction monitoring.ResultsThere was ultrasound evidence of hydroureteronephrosis in 20% of the patients. One patient out of 25 had impaired renal function and eight patients had renal scarring on dimercaptosuccinic acid scans. Both forms of the drug increased the maximum cystometric bladder capacity, decreased detrusor leak pressures and increased compliance compared to pre-therapy levels (P = 0.0001). Visual analog scale showed a significant clinical improvement with both ER and IR tolterodine. A significant increase in maximum bladder capacity in the group receiving IR tolterodine as compared to the ER preparation was noted (P = 0.0001). The decrease in detrusor leak pressures and improvement in compliance were not significantly different between the groups. No adverse effects of hyperpyrexia, flushing or intolerance to outdoor temperatures, or dryness of mouth were observed in either group. No patient suffered from constipation.ConclusionER tolterodine 2 mg once daily is as effective and well tolerated in children with neurogenic bladder as IR tolterodine 2 mg twice a day. The latter was found to be more effective in terms of urodynamic parameters. ER formulation of tolterodine is less expensive and has the advantage of single dosage.     

Treatment with modified intravesical oxybutynin chloride for neurogenic bladder in children

ObjectiveWe have previously reported that intravesical oxybutynin chloride with hydroxypropylcellulose (modified intravesical oxybutynin) is an effective therapeutic agent for patients with detrusor overactivity. In this study, we report on the efficacy, safety and side effects of modified intravesical oxybutynin administration in children with neurogenic bladder.PatientsModified intravesical oxybutynin (1.25 mg/5 mL, twice a day) was administered to four children (three males and one female) with neurogenic bladder (detrusor overactivity and/or low compliance bladder), who were previously unresponsive to or experienced intolerable side effects from oral medications. A cystometrogram was obtained before, 1 week after, and 1 year after the first intravesical instillation of modified oxybutynin. We also carefully observed anticholinergic side effects, occurrence of urinary tract infection and degree of incontinence during this treatment.ResultsAfter 1 week, both cystometric bladder capacity and compliance were improved in all patients, and detrusor overactivity was undetectable in three of four patients. At 1 year, there was further improvement in bladder compliance in three patients, and detrusor overactivity was not observed in two patients. Significant improvement in the degree of incontinence was achieved. No systemic anticholinergic side effects were observed in any of the patients. One patient with vesicoureteral reflux discontinued the therapy after 2 months due to upper urinary tract infections.ConclusionModified intravesical oxybutynin is an effective and relatively safe therapeutic option for children with neurogenic bladders.     

Severe bladder dysfunction revealed prenatally or during infancy

ObjectiveAlthough thought to be an acquired condition, non-neurogenic neurogenic bladder may sometimes be a congenital dysfunction, revealed before toilet training. We report our experience with the condition diagnosed prenatally or during early infancy.Patients and methodWe retrospectively reviewed cases of severe bladder dysfunction with upper-tract impairment, without neurological or obstructive pathology, in children diagnosed before toilet training: five with prenatal diagnosis of severe hydro-ureteronephrosis (group 1) and six with signs of bladder dysfunction during infancy (group 2).ResultsFollow up of group 1 showed decompensation toward severe bladder dysfunction, diagnosed after either toilet training or ureteral reimplantation (n = 3). After a median follow up of 14 years (0.5–20), four were on clean intermittent catheterization with bladder augmentation and one required sphincteric re-education with good result. Two of the five had chronic renal failure. In group 2, six children (two females) presented at median age of 20 months (2–30) with indirect signs of bladder dysfunction, including vesicoureteral reflux (n = 4) and/or hydro-ureteronephrosis (n = 4). After a median follow up of 11 years (5–20), three were on clean intermittent catheterization (two Mitrofanoff channels), and three underwent bladder augmentation. Three children had chronic renal failure of whom one underwent renal transplant.ConclusionThese cases of severe bladder dysfunction were initially misdiagnosed. In both groups, follow up revealed severe dilatation of the upper tract and secondary renal impairment. Antenatal diagnosis of bilateral pyeloureteral dilatation may be the first sign of early bladder dysfunction.     

Can urodynamic studies be dispensed with in the initial urologic management of children with meningomyelocele? A study of 30 cases and review of the literature

ObjectiveTo identify whether a relationship exists between information gathered from voiding patterns, neurological status and radiological findings, and the actual dysfunction seen on cystometry in children with spina bifida.Patients and methodsThirty consecutive children with spina bifida underwent clinical evaluation, urinary tract imaging and cystometry. The clinical and radiological data were correlated with actual bladder dysfunction.ResultsCystometry was abnormal in 87% with overactive detrusor in 77%. Seventeen patients (57%) had significant residual urine of whom all had neurological or voiding abnormalities. Irrespective of radiological findings (abnormal in 53%), 90% of these patients had detrusor overactivity and 10% an underactive detrusor. In the group with insignificant residual urine (n = 13), upper tract was abnormal in six (46%) of which four had neurological/voiding abnormalities and detrusor overactivity. The other two patients with normal neurologic status and voiding pattern had normal cystometry, but their upper tract damage was inexplicable. Of the patients with insignificant residual urine and normal upper tracts (n = 7), four had neurologic/voiding abnormalities, three with an overactive detrusor and one underactive detrusor, and of the other three, one had an overactive detrusor.ConclusionsPatients with significant residual urine can be presumed to have detrusor overactivity and may be initially managed with clean intermittent catheterization and bladder relaxants. Cystometry is indicated if upper tract shows deterioration. In patients with insignificant residual urine and abnormal clinical evaluation or radiology, detrusor overactivity can be presumed and urodynamic studies deferred. Patients with insignificant residual urine, normal radiology but abnormal clinical findings must undergo initial cystometry.     

托特罗定在小儿神经原性膀胱的应用评价

目的 评价托特罗定治疗小儿神经原性膀胱的有效性和安全性.方法 随访126例2002年1月至2009年9月收治的神经原性膀胱患儿,男71例,女55例,年龄(6.2±3.1)岁,全部病例行清洁间歇导尿,81例同时服用托特罗定(0.1 mg·kg-1·d-1,2次/d),45例未服用托特罗定.就诊时和治疗3个月后分别行尿动力学和临床评价.结果 导尿+药物组中8例因副作用终止治疗,其中3例出现口干,2例头晕,3例便秘加重,73例坚持服用托特罗定.就诊时导尿组膀胱容量、膀胱顺应性、逼尿肌压分别为(119.3±19.6)ml、(4.0±1.1)ml/cmH2O、(56.7±10.4)cmH2O.3个月后膀胱容量、膀胱顺应性、逼尿肌压压分别为(122.0±20.1)ml、(4.1±1.1)ml/cmH2O、(55.8±10.9)cmH2O,无明显变化.11例(24.4%)逼尿肌过度活动减轻,13例(28.9%)漏尿分数下降.药物+导尿组就诊时膀胱容量、膀胱顺应性、逼尿肌压分别为(119.8±17.6)ml、(4.4±1.3)ml/cmH2O、(55.1±11.7)cmH2O,3个月后膀胱容量、膀胱顺应性、逼尿肌压分别为(149.6±23.1)ml、(7.5±2.3)ml/cmH2O、(38.4±11.6)cmH2O,膀胱容量、膀胱顺应性明显增加,膀胱内压降低.58例(79.5%)逼尿肌过度活动减轻,53例(73%)漏尿分数下降及家长表示满意.结论 托特罗定可抑制逼尿肌过度活动,降低膀胱内压,增加膀胱顺应性和膀胱容量,较少有副作用,有利于保护上尿路功能,并可减轻尿失禁的程度,对于反射亢进型小儿神经原性膀胱的治疗是安全、有效的.

Abstract：

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tolteroding to treat neurogenic bladder in children. Methods 126 patients (71 boys and 55 girls of 6. 2 ± 3. 1 years old) with hyperreflexia neurogenic bladder who were treated during January 2002 to September 2009 were followed up. All patients were performed clean intermittent catheterization. 81 patients took tolterodine(0. 1mg· kg-1 ·d-1 ,2 times/d) and 45 patients did not use tolterodine. Urodynamic and leakage score were evaluated before the treatment and 3 months later. Results 8 patients stopped tolterodine due to side effect,such as dry mouth in 3, dizziness in 2, sever constipation in 3. 73 patients took tolterodine all the time. Before treatment, the bladder volume, compliance and detrusor pressure in catheterization group were 119. 3 ± 19. 6 ml、4. 0 ± 1. 1ml/cmH2O 、56. 7 ± 10. 4 cmH2O, respectively. Three months after the treatment, bladder volume, compliance and detrusor pressure were 122. 0 ± 20. 1 ml、4. 1 ± 1. 1ml/cmH2O 、 55. 8 ± 10. 9 cmH2O, respectively. There was no significant difference. Detrusor overactivity in 11 patients(24. 4％)and leakage score in 13 patients (28. 9％)decreased. Bladder volume, compliance and detrusor pressure in catheterization + tolterodine group in the beginning were 119. 8 ± 17. 6ml、4. 4 ± 1.3ml/cmH2O 、 55. 1 ± 11.7 cmH2O, respectively. 3 months later, bladder volume, compliance and detrusor pressure were 149. 6 ± 23. 1 ml、7. 5 ± 2. 3ml/cmH2O 、38. 4 ± 11.6 cmH2O, respectively. Bladder volume and compliance increased and detrusor pressure decreased significantly. Detrusor overactivity in 58 patients(79. 5％)and leakage score in 53 patients(73％)decreased. The parents satisfied with this result. Conclusions Tolterodine could inhibit the detrusor overactivity, so it could decrease detrusor pressure and increase bladder volume and compliance and protect kidney. It was effective to the children with hyperreflexia nerurogenic bladder.     

Gabapentin: A novel drug as add-on therapy in cases of refractory overactive bladder in children

ObjectiveTo determine the effectiveness of gabapentin as an add-on therapy in children presenting with overactive bladder (OAB) not responding to conventional anticholinergics.Materials and methodsChildren with refractory OAB were included prospectively from March 2009 to February 2010. The inclusion criterion was persistence of symptoms while on conventional anticholinergics for 6 months. Gabapentin was prescribed as an add-on therapy. The patients were followed 4 weekly with bladder diary and urodynamic study was repeated at 3 months.ResultsThere were 31 children, 26 of neurogenic OAB and 5 of non-neurogenic origin. Mean ± SD age was 8.5 ± 5.3 years. Data were analyzed in 30 patients as treatment was terminated in 1 due to adverse effects. Continence improved in 16 (53.3%) patients. Voiding volume improved from 175 ± 90 to 320 ± 110 ml (p < 0.03). Objective assessment of OAB symptom relief showed marked improvement (p < 0.05). Mean maximum cystometric bladder capacity improved from 210 ± 94 to 360 ± 110 ml (p < 0.02). The maximal detrusor contraction decreased from 75 ± 35 to 25 ± 15 cm H₂O (p < 0.02). Fourteen patients (46.7%) failed to respond to gabapentin therapy. These patients had baseline maximum cystometric bladder capacity <60% for age and maximum detrusor contractions >50 cm of water (p < 0.03).ConclusionsGabapentin gives moderate results in children with OAB refractory to conventional anticholinergics. In general, the drug is well tolerated with fewer adverse effects.     

Dose-escalating study of the pharmacokinetics and tolerability of fesoterodine in children with overactive bladder

ObjectiveTo determine the pharmacokinetics, safety and tolerability of fesoterodine, and assess the utility of 3-day bladder diaries (exploratory objective) in pediatric subjects with neurogenic detrusor overactivity or idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB).MethodsIn this 8-week open-label study, subjects (8–17 years, >25 kg) received fesoterodine 4 mg for 4 weeks, then 8 mg for 4 weeks. Blood samples were obtained at weeks 4 and 8.ResultsOf 21 subjects enrolled, 11 had neurogenic detrusor overactivity and 10 had idiopathic OAB; 1 discontinued (personal reasons). Mean age and weight were 13.2 years and 54.0 kg for boys (n = 12) and 13.1 years and 49.2 kg for girls (n = 9). 5-Hydroxy-methyltolterodine plasma concentrations did not differ by diagnosis and were consistent with predictions based on adult data. Treatment-related adverse events (all mild or moderate) included 1 event each of dry mouth, constipation, dry eyes and blurred vision, and 2 events each of nausea and increased post-void residual volume. Three-day bladder diaries proved feasible.ConclusionsOral administration of fesoterodine in pediatric subjects (>25 kg) with idiopathic OAB or neurogenic detrusor overactivity produced steady-state plasma 5-hydroxy-methyltolterodine exposures similar to those in adults. The doses given were well tolerated.     

Evolution of the management of acquired neurogenic bladder in children using intradetrusor botulinum toxin type A injections: 5-year experience and perspectives

ObjectiveTo report the clinical and urodynamic results of repeated intradetrusor botulinum toxin type A injections in children with an acquired neurogenic bladder.Patients and methodWe reviewed the data of 8 patients presenting an acquired neurogenic bladder treated between 2005 and 2010. Their mean age was 12.4 years old (range: 5–18). They were all on clean intermittent catheterization. All patients presented detrusor overactivity resistant to oral anticholinergic treatment. They received between 2 and 6 injections at a dose of 12 botulinum toxin units (BU)/kg (maximum 300 BU). Cystometry was performed 4–8 weeks after treatment.ResultsFive patients became completely dry, 2 were only rarely wet, and data are lacking for 1 patient. Febrile urinary tract infections ceased after 1 or 2 injections. The mean maximal detrusor pressure decreased below 40 cmH₂O after 1, 2 and 3 injections. The normalized safe capacity rose significantly after 1, 2 and 3 injections. The normalized maximal bladder capacity rose similarly after 1, 2 and 3 injections although not always significantly.ConclusionIntradetrusor botulinum toxin-A injections significantly reduce detrusor pressure and can be repeated with efficacy. They have their place in between anticholinergic treatment and surgery. The procedure could be simplified and the dosage reduced.     

Urodynamic investigation of valve bladder syndrome in children

ObjectiveTo investigate urodynamic manifestations and their relationship with the postoperative experience of children with valve bladder syndrome (VBS).MethodsIncluded were 16 children (mean age 3.2 ± 1.8 years) with VBS, who were divided into two groups. The urodynamic study was performed less than 1 year in group 1 (seven boys, aged 1–1.9 years) and more than 1 year in group 2 (nine boys, aged 2.9–6.5 years) after urethral valve fulguration; at the time of operation patients were less than 2 years old. Standards of the International Children's Continence Society were respected, and results were compared between the two groups.ResultsCompared to group 1, group 2 showed a significant decrease in maximum detrusor voiding pressure (Pdet.void.max) and bladder compliance (BC), and an increase in post-voiding residual (PVR) and maximum bladder capacity (MBC) (p < 0.05), but the difference in detrusor instability was not significant (p > 0.05), Pdet.void.max and PVR were 56.2 ± 14.1 cmH₂O and 96.6 ± 52.4 ml, respectively, in group 2, and there were more intermittent detrusor contractions during voiding in this group.ConclusionPatients with VBS frequently present with multiple bladder dysfunctions that can be diagnosed accurately using urodynamics. Even after urethral valve fulguration Pdet.void.max and BC were inclined to decrease, while PVR and MBC increased with the growth of the children.     

Risk factors for progression to end-stage renal disease in children with posterior urethral valves

ObjectiveTo identify the variables which affect long-term renal outcome in children with posterior urethral valves (PUV).Materials and methodsRetrospective analysis of 260 children with PUV who underwent ablation of valves in 1992–2008 at our tertiary care center. The following risk factors for progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) were analyzed: nadir serum creatinine greater than 1.0 mg/dl, bilateral grade 3 or higher VUR at diagnosis, recurrent febrile UTIs, and severe bladder dysfunction. Patients were divided into two groups: those who developed ESRD (group 1) and those who did not (group 2).ResultsForty (17.62%) patients had nadir serum creatinine >1 mg/dl. At time of initial presentation, high-grade VUR was seen in 63.1% and 33.5% of groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 0.002). Overall, 77 (34%) of the boys developed breakthrough urinary tract infections: 37.03% and 33.5% in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P = 1). Fifty-nine (26%) patients were found to have severe bladder dysfunction: 77.8% and 19% in groups 1 and 2, respectively (P < 0.0001). Twenty-seven (11.89%) patients progressed to ESRD, at mean age of 11.21 years (5–16). On univariate analysis, the risk-predicting variables were: nadir serum creatinine value greater than 1 mg/dl (P < 0.0001), bilateral high-grade VUR (P = 0.002) and severe bladder dysfunction (P < 0.0001). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, nadir serum creatinine greater than 1 mg/dl (OR 23.79; CI 8.20–69.05) and severe bladder dysfunction (OR 5.67; CI 1.90–16.93) were found to be independent risk factors predictive of ultimate progression to ESRD.ConclusionsNadir serum creatinine and bladder dysfunction are the main factors affecting long-term renal outcome in cases of PUV. Early identification and treatment of bladder dysfunction may thus be beneficial.     

Immunoexpression of adrenergic receptors in detrusor from patients with prune belly syndrome: a digital quantification

IntroductionPrune belly syndrome (PBS) presents with large-capacity bladders, high compliance and post-void residual volumes. Operative and conservative treatments are controversial. When histologically compared to normal bladder, bladder outlet obstruction results in an up- or down-regulation of adrenoceptors. Our goal was to study the immunoexpression of adrenoceptors in detrusor from patients with PBS.Materials and methodsBladder domes from PBS patients (n = 14) were studied (PBG). For normal controls, bladder specimens were obtained at adult surgery (n = 13) (CG1) and at child autopsy (n = 5) (CG2). Staining was performed using antibodies to α1a, α1b, α1d and β3 adrenoceptors. Five to 10 images were captured on an optic microscope with a digital camera and analysed with Photoshop®. The immunocyhistochemical index with arbitrary units was calculated and compared.ResultsMean age was 1.28, 64 and 1.41 years for PBG, CG1 and CG2, respectively. The immunohistochemical index with arbitrary units of α1a receptors was 0.06 in PBG, 0.16 in CG1 and 0.14 in CG2 (p = 0.008); of α1b 0.06, 0.06 and 0.07 (p = 0.781); and of α1d 0.04, 0.04 and 0.05 (p = 0.618). Regarding β3 the respective values were 0.07, 0.14 and 0.10 (p = 0.378).ConclusionOur results show a decrease in α1a-adrenoceptor immunostaining intensity in detrusor from children with PBS. Further in vitro studies are needed to determine whether these observations are physiologically significant.     

Are urodynamic studies really needed during bladder augmentation follow-up?

ObjectiveWe assessed clinical and urodynamic outcomes, over a minimum 10-year follow-up period, of neuropathic bladder patients treated with a bladder augmentation (BA) to determine if periodic urodynamic studies are needed.Material and methodsThirty-two patients with poorly compliant bladders underwent BA at a mean age of 11 years (2.5–18). Mean follow-up was 12 years (10–14.5) and mean patient age at the end of the study was 22 years (12.2–33). During follow-up all patients were controlled at regular intervals with urinary tract imaging, serum electrolyte and creatinine levels, cystoscopy and urodynamic studies. Preoperative, 1-year post-BA and latest urodynamic studies results were compared.ResultsUrodynamic studies at 1-year post-BA showed a significant increase in bladder capacity and a decrease in end-filling detrusor pressure compared with preoperative values (396 vs 106 ml; 10 vs 50 cm H₂O, P < 0.0001). The increase in bladder capacity was more significant at the end of the study than after 1 year (507.8 vs 396 ml, P < 0.002). Thirteen patients had phasic contractions after 1 year and 11 at the end (not significant, NS), and these contractions were more frequent with colon than with ileum (NS). At the end of follow-up, phasic contraction pressure had decreased while trigger volume had increased (35 vs 28 cm H₂O; 247 vs 353 ml, NS). All patients are dry and have normal renal function, except one who had mild renal insufficiency before BA.ConclusionBA improves bladder capacity and pressure, and these changes are maintained over time (although phasic contractions do not disappear). Repeated urodynamic studies are only necessary when upper urinary tract dilatation or incontinence does not improve.     

Total endoscopic management (TEM approach) of children with non-compliant neuropathic bladder: a preliminary report

PurposeWe prospectively evaluated the efficacy and durability of a combination of intradetrusor botulinum-A toxin (BTX-A) and endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) to manage children with myelomeningocele (MMC) and non-compliant refluxing bladders who were not responding to standard conservative therapy. We also evaluated whether this combined therapy can lower intravesical pressure, increase bladder capacity, gain social continence and protect the upper tract from recurrent urinary tract infection.Material and methodsA total of 10 patients with a mean age of 5.9 ± 3.6 years (range 2–12 years) with MMC (eight females and two males) were prospectively involved in the study. All patients were fully compliant to clean intermittent catheterization, and all were non-responders (failed to gain continence and/or poor compliance) to the maximum tolerable dose of anticholinergics and catheterization. All patients were subjected to cystoscopic intradetrusor injection of 12 U/kg (maximum 300 U) of BTX-A in an infection-free bladder. They all had VUR (16 refluxing ureters, six patients with bilateral VUR) and did not show resolution in the pretreatment voiding cystourethrogram; accordingly, submucosal injection of Deflux^® was performed either with the second BTX-A treatment (initial four patients) or with the first BTX-A treatment (the other six patients). The grade of reflux was G III, IV and V in three, seven and six ureters, respectively.ResultsThe maximum bladder capacity increased significantly from 79 ± 49 to 155 ± 57 ml (p < 0.022), and the maximum detrusor pressure decreased significantly from 55 ± 16 to 37 ± 11 cm H₂O (p < 0.001). Fifteen out of 16 (93.75%) refluxing ureters were completely resolved (one of them on second attempt), and one (6.25%) (GV reflux) remained unchanged despite of two attempts. Of six incontinent patients, five reached complete dryness between catheterizations and one showed partial improvement.ConclusionsA combination of BTX-A and endoscopic correction of VUR is a simple and effective way to overcome the increased risk of high intravesical pressure and recurrent UTI. This treatment decreases the incidence of renal damage in children on whom conservative management fails to help, in a minimally invasive way.     

Post-pyelonephritic renal scars are not associated with high voiding pressures

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate whether renal scars and vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) are associated with bladder dysfunction in children after first clinical pyelonephritis.Patients and methodsSixty-four children were evaluated with urodynamics and voiding cystourethrography at a median of 8 weeks after their first episode of clinical pyelonephritis. All patients had ultrasonography and dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scintigraphy during the infection. After 2 years, DMSA scintigraphy was repeated in 58 patients. Re-infections were recorded.ResultsOveractive detrusor was found in 27 (42%) patients. There was no significant difference in the incidence of overactive detrusor between boys and girls. The maximal voiding pressure was higher in boys (median 92.5, range 48–191 cmH₂O) than in girls (median 82, range 37–150 cmH₂O) (P = 0.0117). Thirty-one (48%) patients had renal defects in scintigraphy during the infection. Ultimately, 12 patients (21%) developed renal scars; 11 patients (17%) had VUR. Renal defects in DMSA scintigraphy and the presence of VUR were not associated with overactive detrusor or high voiding pressures.ConclusionOveractive detrusor is a common finding after first episode of pyelonephritis. The dysfunction may explain the development of urinary tract infections in some children. There were no differences in the incidence of overactive detrusor or voiding pressures in patients with and without VUR, or in those with and without renal defects on DMSA scintigraphy. Urodynamic study is not a primary investigation in pyelonephritic children.     

Is daily walking distance affected in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis? An original prospective study using the pedometer on smartphones

Background dataLittle is known about daily walking distance levels, which accounts for approximately 80% of overall physical activity per day, in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS).ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the level of walking distance in AIS treated by bracing or not, comparing this activity with that of a control group. We used an original method based on smartphone pedometers for studying walking distance in everyday life.MethodsNineteen AIS patients, aged 14.1 (13–17) years, and 25 asymptomatic patients, aged 12.9 (12–14) years were included prospectively. The 19 AIS cases comprised 9 untreated individuals and 10 with ongoing night brace treatment. The mean walking distance per day as estimated by the pedometer application on smartphones for 2 months was assessed. Weekly sports activities (hours per week) were also reported.ResultsDuring the first month, the mean walking distance was 2.58 ± 0.65 km/day for control patients, 2.31 ± 1.38 km/day for untreated AIS, and 3.65 ± 0.72 km/day for AIS patients treated with a night brace. During the second month, the mean walking distance was 2.60 ± 0.73 km/day for control patients, 2.40 ± 1.41 km/day for untreated AIS, and 3.70 ± 0.72 km/day for AIS patients treated with a night brace. Statistical analysis between groups showed a statistically significant difference with a higher level of daily walking distance in adolescents treated with a night brace compared with other groups.ConclusionThe pedometer on smartphones is a cost-effective and friendly tool to assess adolescents’ level of walking distance. Our results indicate no restriction in terms of daily walking distance between adolescents without scoliosis and those with idiopathic scoliosis.Level of evidenceLevel II.     

Predicting operability in children with acyanotic congenital heart diseases and severe pulmonary hypertension

ObjectiveTo investigate whether peri-operative risk stratification of children with ventricular septal defect (VSD) and complete atrioventricular septal defect (CAVSD) complicated with elevated pulmonary vascular resistance could be predicted solely based on measuring systemic oxygen saturation (SaO₂) without performing cardiac catheterization.MethodsRecords of patients with VSD and CAVSD, who underwent cardiac catheterization from 2002 to 2012 were reviewed and grouped as low (A) and high (B) risk, based on the pulmonary vascular resistance (PVRI) of ⩽ or >6 Woods units (WU) in room air, respectively. Patients in group B underwent oxygen study to assess pulmonary vascular reactivity. Patients with PVRI ⩽ 6 WU in either room air or on 100% oxygen were deemed operable.ResultsSeventy-six patients; (VSD = 45, CAVSD = 31) underwent measurement of pulmonary vascular resistance. All patients with VSD were operated. Forty-two of them had systemic oxygen saturation (SaO₂) ⩾ 94%. Twenty-four of 31 patients with CAVSD were operated and had SaO₂ ⩾ 83%. SaO₂ of ⩾83% in CAVSD and ⩾94% in VSD had sensitivity and specificity of 95% and 100%, respectively to predict pulmonary vascular resistance based operability.ConclusionOxygen saturation on pulse oximetry of ⩾94% in children with VSD and 83% with CAVSD accurately identified operable patients. This criterion may be used as an alternate to invasive assessment of pulmonary vascular resistance. Outcome of operable patients having PVRI > 6 WU in room air is good and similar to those with PVRI < 6 WU.     

Urodynamic changes in patients with anterior urethral valves: before and after endoscopic valve ablation

PurposeTo retrospectively review a series of children with anterior urethral valves (AUV), with emphasis on patterns of urodynamic change and long-term outcome of endoscopic treatment.Patients and methodsWe reviewed the medical records of eight patients who had undergone thorough radiological and urodynamic exams before and after treatment. The diagnosis of AUV was based on radiological imaging and confirmed by urethrocystoscopy. The valves were ablated through either transurethral fulguration or resection. The upper urinary tracts were studied by renal scan and ultrasonography before and after the procedure. Bladder function was assessed urodynamically 3 months after surgery. Uroflowmetry was performed as soon as the children were toilet trained.ResultsEndoscopic ablation of AUV was successful in all cases and no surgical complications occurred. The initial symptoms resolved in all boys. VUR disappeared in two out of three patients, and five children had bladder trabeculation that was resolved after surgery. The final outcome was successful in seven patients (88%). The major urodynamic dysfunction was bladder hypercontractility that resolved following valve ablation. The mean maximum voiding detrusor pressure (P_detmax) decreased from 213.2 ± 17.9 cmH₂O to 80.7 ± 9.9 cmH₂O, 6 months after treatment (P < 0.001). None of the patients had low-compliant bladder, detrusor instability or myogenic failure. The voiding pattern in all toilet-trained patients was staccato and of an interrupted shape prior to surgery, but changed to a normal bell-shaped voiding pattern following valve ablation.ConclusionAUV should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with infravesical obstruction. We recommend endoscopic valve ablation as the treatment of choice.     

Modern staged repair of bladder exstrophy: a contemporary series

ObjectiveMany changes have occurred in the treatment of bladder exstrophy over the last few years and many repairs are now offered. The purpose of this study was to evaluate long-term outcomes in a select group of patients in whom modern staged repair (MSRE) was undertaken.Patients and methodsFrom an institutionally approved database were extracted 189 patients who had undergone primary closure between 1988 and 2004. The records of 131 patients (95 males) who underwent MSRE with a modified Cantwell-Ransley repair by a single surgeon in 1988–2004 were reviewed with a minimum 5-year follow up.ResultsSixty-seven patients with a mean age of 2 months (range 6 h to 4 months) underwent primary closure, and 18 underwent osteotomy at the same time. Mean age at epispadias repair was 18 months (8–24). Mean age at bladder neck reconstruction (BNR) was 4.8 years (40–60 months) with a mean capacity of 98 cc (75–185). Analysis of bladder capacity prior to BNR revealed that patients with a mean capacity greater than 85 cc median had better outcomes. Seventy percent (n = 47) are continent day and night and voiding per urethra without augmentation or intermittent catheterization. Social continence defined as dry for more than 3 h during the day was found in 10% (n = 7). Six patients required continent diversion after failed BNR. Seven patients are completely incontinent. The mean time to daytime continence was 14 months (4–23) and the mean time to night-time continence was 23 months (11–34). No correlation was found between age at BNR and continence.ConclusionsPatients with a good bladder template who develop sufficient bladder capacity after successful primary closure and epispadias repair can achieve acceptable continence without bladder augmentation and intermittent catheterization.     

Lorazepam versus diazepam–phenytoin combination in the treatment of convulsive status epilepticus in children: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundConvulsive status epilepticus demands urgent and appropriate management with anticonvulsants. Intravenous diazepam is an established drug in the management of convulsive status epilepticus in adults as well as in children. The efficacy of intravenous lorazepam has not been well established in children.ObjectiveTo determine whether intravenous lorazepam is as efficacious as diazepam–phenytoin combination in the treatment of convulsive status epilepticus in children.Study designRandomized controlled trial.MethodsA total of 178 children were enrolled in the study; 90 in the lorazepam group and 88 in the diazepam–phenytoin combination group. Enrolled subjects were between 1 and 12 years with a clinical diagnosis of convulsive status epilepticus, presenting in pediatric emergency of a tertiary care hospital. They were randomized to receive either intravenous lorazepam (0.1 mg/kg) or intravenous diazepam (0.2 mg/kg)–phenytoin (18 mg/kg) combination at admission and were followed up for subsequent 18 h.ResultsThe overall success rate of therapy was 100% in both the groups. There was no statistically significant difference in the two groups (lorazepam versus diazepam–phenytoin combination) in the median time taken to stop the seizure [20 s in both groups], the number of subjects requiring more than one dose of the study drug to stop the presenting seizure [lorazepam 6(6.7%) versus diazepam–phenytoin combination: 14 (15.9%); adjusted RR (95% CI) = 0.377 (0.377, 1.046); P = 0.061] and the number (%) of patients having respiratory depression [lorazepam 4(4.4%) versus diazepam–phenytoin combination 5 (5.6%)]. None of the patients in the two groups required additional anticonvulsant drug to stop the presenting seizure. No patient required mechanical ventilation and none of the patients in the two groups required cross-over to the alternative regimen.ConclusionLorazepam is as efficacious and safe as diazepam–phenytoin combination. We recommend use of lorazepam as a single drug to replace the two drug combination of diazepam–phenytoin combination to control the initial seizure in pediatric convulsive status epilepticus.