Home HealthTopics Health Centers Reference Library - ADAM Search NetWellnessSearch   Advanced

ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Bladder exstrophy repair

Bladder exstrophy repair

Definition

Bladder exstrophy repair is surgery to repair a birth defect in which the bladder is inside out and sticks out of the abdominal wall. The pelvic bones are also separated.

Alternative Names

Bladder birth defect repair; Everted bladder repair; Exposed bladder repair; Repair of bladder exstrophy

Description

Bladder exstrophy repair involves two surgeries: One to repair the bladder and another to attach the pelvic bones to each other.

The first surgery separates the exposed bladder from the abdomen wall and closes the bladder. The bladder neck and urethra are repaired. A flexible, hollow tube called a catheter is placed to drain urine from the bladder through the abdominal wall. A second catheter is left in the urethra to promote healing.

The second surgery, pelvic bone surgery, may be done along with the bladder repair. Or, it may be delayed for weeks or months.

Why the Procedure is Performed

The surgery is recommended for children who are born with bladder exstrophy. Bladder exstrophy occurs more often in boys and is often associated with other birth defects.

Surgery to repair the defect is usually performed within the first 48 hours after birth.

Recovery

After pelvic bone surgery, the child will need to be in a lower body cast or sling. This helps the bones heal.

How long the child stays in the hospital depends on:

  • The severity of the bladder defect
  • The number of surgeries needed
  • Whether other medical problems exist

Outlook (Prognosis)

Surgery is necessary to:

  • Allow the child to develop normal urinary control
  • Avoid future problems with sexual function
  • Improve the child's physical appearance
  • Prevent infection that could decrease kidney function

Some children are unable to develop enough urinary control and may need surgery again later.

Risks

Risks with this procedure may include:

Risks for any anesthesia are:

  • Breathing problems
  • Reactions to medications
Risks for any surgery are:
  • Bleeding
  • Infection
Review Date: 5/22/2008
Reviewed By: Scott M. Gilbert, MD, Department of Urology, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

ADAM Index