Pediatric Urology is a subspecialty of urology focused on diagnosing and treating urinary and genital disorders in infants, children, and adolescents. It involves both medical and surgical management of congenital and acquired conditions affecting the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and reproductive organs.
1. Common Pediatric Urological Conditions & Their Treatments
A. Congenital Urological Disorders (Present at Birth)
- Hypospadias (Abnormal Urethral Opening in Boys)
- Treatment: Surgical correction (urethroplasty) usually between 6-18 months of age.
- Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) (Obstruction in the Male Urethra)
- Treatment: Endoscopic valve ablation to remove the obstruction and improve urine flow.
- Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR) (Urine Refluxing from Bladder to Kidneys)
- Treatment:
- Mild cases: Antibiotics and monitoring.
- Severe cases: Surgery (Deflux injection or ureteral reimplantation).
- Treatment:
- Congenital Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction (UPJ Obstruction)
- Treatment: Pyeloplasty (surgical correction of blockage in the kidney’s drainage system).
- Bladder Exstrophy & Epispadias Complex (Bladder and Urethral Defects)
- Treatment: Multi-stage reconstructive surgery.
B. Acquired Urological Disorders
- Undescended Testes (Cryptorchidism)
- Treatment: Orchiopexy (surgical repositioning of the testes).
- Hydrocele & Hernia (Fluid-filled Sac or Hernia in Groin/Scrotum)
- Treatment: Herniotomy (surgical repair).
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) & Kidney Stones
- Treatment:
- UTIs: Antibiotics and hydration.
- Stones: Lithotripsy or surgical removal in severe cases.
- Treatment:
- Neurogenic Bladder (Bladder Dysfunction Due to Nerve Damage)
- Treatment: Catheterization, medications, or bladder augmentation surgery.
2. Pediatric Urology Surgical Techniques
- Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS): Laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery for less pain and faster recovery.
- Endoscopic Procedures: Cystoscopy and ureteroscopy for stone removal and reflux treatment.
- Reconstructive Urology: Procedures like ureteral reimplantation and bladder augmentation.
3. Postoperative & Long-term Care
- Urinary Function Monitoring: Regular check-ups and imaging (ultrasound, VCUG).
- Parental Guidance & Support: Education on hygiene and care after surgery.