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Gnech M, 't Hoen L, Zachou A, Bogaert G, Castagnetti M, O'Kelly F, Quaedackers J, Rawashdeh YF, Silay MS, Kennedy U, Skott M, van Uitert A, Yuan Y, Radmayr C, Burgu B. Update and Summary of the European Association of Urology/European Society of Paediatric Urology Paediatric Guidelines on Vesicoureteral Reflux in Children. Eur Urol 2024; 85:433-442. [PMID: 38182493 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The prescriptive literature on vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is still limited and thus the level of evidence is generally low. The aim of these guidelines is to provide a practical approach to the treatment of VUR that is based on risk analysis and selective indications for both diagnostic tests and interventions. We provide a 2023 update on the chapter on VUR in children from the European Association of Urology (EAU) and European Society for Paediatric Urology (ESPU) guidelines. METHODS A structured literature review was performed for all relevant publications published from the last update up to March 2022. KEY FINDINGS AND LIMITATIONS The most important updates are as follows. Bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD) is common in toilet-trained children presenting with urinary tract infection (UTI) with or without primary VUR and increases the risk of febrile UTI and focal uptake defects on a radionuclide scan. Continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) may not be required in every VUR patient. Although the literature does not provide any reliable information on CAP duration in VUR patients, a practical approach would be to consider CAP until there is no further BBD. Recommendations for children with febrile UTI and high-grade VUR include initial medical treatment, with surgical care reserved for CAP noncompliance, breakthrough febrile UTIs despite CAP, and symptomatic VUR that persists during long-term follow-up. Comparison of laparoscopic extravesical versus transvesicoscopic ureteral reimplantation demonstrated that both are good option in terms of resolution and complication rates. Extravesical surgery is the most common approach used for robotic reimplantation, with a wide range of variations and success rates. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This summary of the updated 2023 EAU/ESPU guidelines provides practical considerations for the management and diagnostic evaluation of VUR in children. ADVANCING PRACTICE For children with VUR, it is important to treat BBD if present. A practical approach regarding the duration of CAP is to consider administration until BBD resolution. PATIENT SUMMARY We provide a summary and update of guidelines on the diagnosis and management of urinary reflux (where urine flows back up through the urinary tract) in children. Treatment of bladder and bowel dysfunction is critical, as this is common in toilet-trained children presenting with urinary tract infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Gnech
- Department of Paediatric Urology, Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy.
| | - Lisette 't Hoen
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandra Zachou
- Department of HIV and Sexual Health, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | - Guy Bogaert
- Department of Urology, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marco Castagnetti
- Department of Surgical, Oncological and Gastroenterological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Fardod O'Kelly
- Division of Paediatric Urology, Beacon Hospital Dublin & University College Dublin, Ireland
| | - Josine Quaedackers
- Department of Urology, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Yazan F Rawashdeh
- Department of Urology, Section of Pediatric Urology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mesrur Selcuk Silay
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Department of Urology, Biruni University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Uchenna Kennedy
- Department of Pediatric Urology, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Skott
- Department of Urology, Section of Pediatric Urology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Allon van Uitert
- Department of Urology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Yuhong Yuan
- Department of Medicine, London Health Science Centre, London, Ontario, Canada, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christian Radmayr
- Department of Urology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Berk Burgu
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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Damasio MB, Donati F, Bruno C, Darge K, Mentzel HJ, Ključevšek D, Napolitano M, Ozcan HN, Riccabona M, Smets AM, Sofia C, Stafrace S, Petit P, Ording Müller LS. Update on imaging recommendations in paediatric uroradiology: the European Society of Paediatric Radiology workgroup session on voiding cystourethrography. Pediatr Radiol 2024; 54:606-619. [PMID: 38467874 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-024-05883-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) is a fluoroscopic technique that allows the assessment of the urinary tract, including the urethra, bladder, and-if vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is present-the ureters and the pelvicalyceal systems. The technique also allows for the assessment of bladder filling and emptying, providing information on anatomical and functional aspects. VCUG is, together with contrast-enhanced voiding urosonography (VUS), still the gold standard test to diagnose VUR and it is one of the most performed fluoroscopic examinations in pediatric radiology departments. VCUG is also considered a follow-up examination after urinary tract surgery, and one of the most sensitive techniques for studying anatomy of the lower genitourinary tract in suspected anatomical malformations. The international reflux study in 1985 published the first reflux-protocol and graded VUR into five classes; over the following years, other papers have been published on this topic. In 2008, the European Society of Paediatric Radiology (ESPR) Uroradiology Task Force published the first proposed VCUG Guidelines with internal scientific society agreement. The purpose of our work is to create a detailed overview of VCUG indications, procedural recommendations, and to provide a structured final report, with the aim of updating the 2008 VCUG paper proposed by the European Society of Paediatric Radiology (ESPR). We have also compared VCUG with contrast-enhanced VUS as an emergent alternative. As a result of this work, the ESPR Urogenital Task Force strongly recommends the use of contrast-enhanced VUS as a non-radiating imaging technique whenever indicated and possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Beatrice Damasio
- Pediatric Radiology Department, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Via Gerolamo Gaslini 5, 16147, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Francesco Donati
- Pediatric Surgery Department, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
| | - Costanza Bruno
- Radiology Department, AOUI Verona (Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata), Verona, Italy
| | - Kassa Darge
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Hans-Joachim Mentzel
- Section of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, Universitätsklinikum Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Damjana Ključevšek
- Department of Radiology, University Children's Hospital Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Marcello Napolitano
- Department of Pediatric Radiology and Neuroradiology, V. Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - H Nursun Ozcan
- Department of Radiology/Division of Pediatric Radiology, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | - Anne M Smets
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Carmelo Sofia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Morphologic and Functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Samuel Stafrace
- McMaster University and McMaster Children's Hospital, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Philippe Petit
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Hopital Timone Enfants, Aix Marseille-Université, Marseille, France
| | - Lil-Sofie Ording Müller
- Division of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Paediatric Radiology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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Brownrigg N, Lorenzo AJ, Rickard M, Dos Santos J. The urological evaluation and management of neurogenic bladder in children and adolescents-what every pediatric nephrologist needs to know. Pediatr Nephrol 2024; 39:409-421. [PMID: 37518419 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-023-06064-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Neurogenic bladder (NGB) is an encompassing term that includes multiple causes of bladder dysfunction linked to a congenital or acquired neurological condition that adversely impacts the innervation of the lower urinary tract. Multiple static or progressive conditions can be associated with NGB in pediatric and adolescent patients. Currently, spinal dysraphism (i.e., spina bifida) is one of the most common etiologies, which occurs in 3-4 per 10,000 live births in developed nations. Abnormal bladder dynamics can lead to kidney damage secondary to high pressures or recurrent infections, as well as urinary incontinence. The current management paradigm centers on a proactive approach to preserving kidney function and achieving continence through behavioral, pharmacological, and surgical means. This educational review highlights the key components of urological management to maximize collaboration with pediatric nephrologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Brownrigg
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Armando J Lorenzo
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Mandy Rickard
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Joana Dos Santos
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.
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Arlen AM, Amin J, Leong T. Voiding cystourethrogram: Who gets a cyclic study and does it matter? J Pediatr Urol 2022; 18:378-382. [PMID: 35241383 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) images the urethra and bladder during both bladder filling and emptying, as well as the ureters and kidneys when vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is present. Given the variation in VCUG technique and reporting, the American Academy of Pediatrics Sections on Urology and Radiology published a joint standardized VCUG protocol in 2016, which included the recommendation of at least 2 voiding cycles to identify intermittent VUR and/or ureteral ectopia. STUDY DESIGN VCUG were assessed for adherence to performance of cyclic study. Children who underwent cyclic evaluation were compared to those who underwent a single cycle VCUG. Radiation dosage was also analyzed. Studies performed on patients >18 years of age and those obtained as part of a trauma evaluation were excluded from study. RESULTS Two hundred and eighty-four VCUGs were analyzed, 97 (34.2%) were positive for VUR on the initial cycle. Of the remaining 187 studies, 116 (62%) had multiple filling-voiding cycles while in 71 (38%) only a single cycle was performed. One hundred and sixty-one (86.1%) were negative for vesicoureteral reflux. Twenty-six (13.9%) children were diagnosed with VUR after the initial filling-voiding cycle: 6 were diagnosed with grade I, 2 grade II, 11 grade III, 2 grade IV and 5 grade V. Of the 123 total children found to have VUR, 26 (21.2%) were diagnosed after an initial negative cycle. Younger children were significantly more likely to have a cyclic study performed; mean age of patients undergoing a cyclic study was 1.09 ± 2.16 years versus 3.86 ± 4.5 years (p ≤ 0.0001). Categorically, 74.1% of children less than 1 year of age underwent a cyclic study compared to 6.9% of children older than 5 years of age (p ≤ 0.0001). There was no difference based on sex with 49.1% of males and 50.9% of females (p = 0.667) undergoing cyclic evaluation. Children undergoing a cyclic study had lower median radiation dose 2.15 microGy m2 (range 0.09-111) compared to 4.41 (range 1.3-104) [p = 0.01]. DISCUSSION Vesicoureteral reflux may occur intermittently and cyclic VCUG is thought to enhance the ability to detect reflux. In our cohort, 26 children (9.2%) were only diagnosed after an additional cycle - ie 21.1% of reflux would have been missed had a cyclic study not been performed. The majority of these patients (69.2%, 18 of 26) were found to have dilating, and thus perhaps more clinically significant, reflux. Our study highlights the importance of obtaining as much information as possible and adhering to the standardized VCUG protocol. CONCLUSION Younger children are more likely to undergo cyclic VCUG. While most reflux is detected with the initial filling-voiding cycle, 26 (21.2%) patients were diagnosed after an initial negative cycle with the majority being dilating VUR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Arlen
- Department of Urology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Jay Amin
- Department of Urology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Traci Leong
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Evaluating the accuracy of simplified VCUG in comparison with traditional VCUG for diagnosis of urinary-reflux in children: Radiation dose reduction. J Med Imaging Radiat Sci 2021; 53:102-106. [PMID: 34802965 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmir.2021.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) is an imaging technique for diagnosing urinary-reflux. VCUG requires X-ray exposure, increasing the risk of malignancies induced by ionizing radiation, especially in children. Considering the importance of early diagnosis of urinary-reflux using VCUG to prevent kidney complications and the significance of reducing the radiation dose during this imaging, this study intends to reduce the imaging views of VCUG and evaluate the urinary-reflux, using a reduced number of images. MATERIAL AND METHODS Children referred to a University hospital who underwent VCUG participated in this study. The routine VCUG procedure contained five images. Two images of full-bladder and post-void of each patient were considered a simplified procedure and were evaluated by two radiologists to determine reflux and its grade. The sensitivity and specificity of simplified VCUG were determined. RESULTS 182 patients with a mean age of 5.36±4.95 years old participated in this study. There were 90% and 82% agreement between routine and simplified VCUG results in the left and right kidneys. The simplified VCUG had 87.2% and 100% sensitivity and specificity in detecting the left-side reflux, 83 .9% and 100%, to detect the right-side reflux. CONCLUSION The results showed that using two images instead of five can effectively diagnose and grade urinary-reflux. The simplified VCUG had a relatively good and acceptable agreement in comparison to the routine cystourethrogram. It can effectively reduce the patient's radiation dose, especially in patients who need to perform serial bladder imaging for follow-up after operation.
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Läckgren G, Cooper CS, Neveus T, Kirsch AJ. Management of Vesicoureteral Reflux: What Have We Learned Over the Last 20 Years? Front Pediatr 2021; 9:650326. [PMID: 33869117 PMCID: PMC8044769 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.650326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is associated with increased risks of urinary tract infection, renal scarring and reflux nephropathy. We review advancements over the last two decades in our understanding and management of VUR. Over time, the condition may resolve spontaneously but it can persist for many years and bladder/bowel dysfunction is often involved. Some factors that increase the likelihood of persistence (e.g., high grade) also increase the risk of renal scarring. Voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) is generally considered the definitive method for diagnosing VUR, and helpful in determining the need for treatment. However, this procedure causes distress and radiation exposure. Therefore, strategies to reduce clinicians' reliance upon VCUG (e.g., after a VUR treatment procedure) have been developed. There are several options for managing patients with VUR. Observation is suitable only for patients at low risk of renal injury. Antibiotic prophylaxis can reduce the incidence of UTIs, but drawbacks such as antibiotic resistance and incomplete adherence mean that this option is not viable for long-term use. Long-term studies of endoscopic injection have helped us understand factors influencing use and the effectiveness of this procedure. Ureteral reimplantation is still performed commonly, and robot-assisted laparoscopic methods are gaining popularity. Over the last 20 years, there has been a shift toward more conservative management of VUR with an individualized, risk-based approach. For continued treatment improvement, better identification of children at risk of renal scarring, robust evidence regarding the available interventions, and an improved VUR grading system are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Göran Läckgren
- Section of Urology, Department of Pediatric Surgery, University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Tryggve Neveus
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Andrew J Kirsch
- Pediatric Urology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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