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Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery

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Experience Expert Pediatric Urology Care with Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a challenging condition that can significantly impact a child’s health and well-being. When left untreated, VUR can cause recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs) and potential kidney damage. Fortunately, there is a surgical option to correct the reflux, ensuring a healthier future and a better quality of life for affected children. This intervention can provide relief and restore comfort, helping children to lead active, infection-free lives.

Turkey has become a leading destination for pediatric urology care, with a reputation for world-class medical services at an affordable cost. At Prospero Medical, we specialize in connecting families with top-tier pediatric urologists who offer the latest surgical techniques for treating VUR. Our trusted network of hospitals is equipped with advanced medical technology, ensuring that your child receives optimal care from experienced surgeons. With our commitment to excellence and personalized support, Prospero Medical ensures a smooth, seamless experience for families seeking effective solutions for their child’s health.

What Is Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery?

Vesicoureteral reflux surgery is a procedure performed to correct VUR, a condition where urine moves backward from the bladder into the kidneys. This surgery is typically recommended when the reflux is severe and recurrent, or if other treatments, such as antibiotics, are ineffective. The goal of the surgery is to prevent further kidney damage, reduce the risk of infections, and improve the child’s overall health and well-being.

The surgery is minimally invasive, performed through a small incision or, in some cases, laparoscopically, where a camera and small instruments are used. By repairing the valve mechanism between the bladder and ureter, the surgery helps ensure that urine flows in the proper direction, preventing infections and complications associated with VUR.

Who Are the Eligible Candidates for Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery?

Children diagnosed with vesicoureteral reflux, particularly those with the following conditions, are typically candidates for surgery:

Severe or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs): Persistent infections can lead to kidney damage and other complications.
Kidney damage or scarring: If VUR causes damage to the kidneys, surgery is often recommended to prevent further harm.
Failure of medical management: If antibiotic therapy or other conservative treatments do not control the reflux, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Persistent VUR after the age of 5: Surgery may be considered if the reflux does not resolve naturally as the child grows older.

VUR can be diagnosed through tests like a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), which allows doctors to visualize the flow of urine and assess the severity of the condition. Children with moderate to severe cases or those who experience frequent UTIs are generally recommended for surgery to prevent long-term damage.

Anesthesia

For vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) surgery, general anesthesia is administered to ensure that the child remains completely unconscious and comfortable throughout the procedure. This type of anesthesia allows the child to experience no pain or discomfort while undergoing surgery. The anesthesiologist carefully monitors the child’s vital signs during the operation, ensuring a safe and effective experience, with the child waking up gradually as the anesthesia wears off.

Surgical Approach

The surgical approach for VUR surgery can vary based on the severity of the condition and the available resources at the hospital. A traditional open surgery approach involves making a larger incision, allowing direct access to the ureter and bladder. Alternatively, a minimally invasive laparoscopic method may be used, where smaller incisions are made, reducing pain and speeding up recovery. The choice of technique depends on the complexity of the case and the surgeon’s expertise.

Reimplantation of the Ureter

The most common procedure for treating VUR is ureteral reimplantation. During this surgery, the surgeon repositions the affected ureter to form a new, more effective valve at the bladder-ureter junction. This technique ensures that urine flows in the proper direction, preventing it from backflowing into the kidneys, which can lead to infection and kidney damage. It’s a highly successful procedure that provides long-term relief from VUR symptoms.

Incision and Recovery

In the case of open surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision on the abdomen to access the ureter and bladder. This allows for direct repositioning of the ureter to restore proper function. For laparoscopic surgery, smaller incisions are made for the camera and surgical instruments, leading to quicker recovery and less scarring. After the procedure, the surgeon ensures that the newly positioned valve functions properly, then closes the incision, and the child begins the healing process, typically requiring a shorter hospital stay.

Preparation Before Surgery

Pre-Operative Evaluation

Before the surgery, a series of tests may be performed, including a urinalysis, kidney function tests, and a VCUG, to assess the severity of the reflux and ensure the child’s overall health.

Consultations

Parents will meet with the pediatric urologist to discuss the surgery, expected outcomes, and post-operative care. The anesthesiologist will also assess the child’s medical history and prepare for anesthesia.

Hospital Stay

The child will typically stay in the hospital for 2-3 days after the surgery for recovery monitoring.
This hospital stay allows healthcare professionals to observe the child’s vital signs, assess the healing progress, and ensure no complications arise, such as infections or issues with the newly created valve.

Pain Management

Adequate pain relief will be provided through medication, ensuring that the child is as comfortable as possible during the recovery process.
The medical team will closely monitor for any signs of infection or complications, adjusting pain management protocols and taking necessary precautions to promote a smooth healing journey.

Return to Normal Activities

Most children are able to return to their normal activities within 4-6 weeks following VUR surgery, once the healing process is well underway.
Activity restrictions will be put in place, particularly avoiding strenuous movements or heavy lifting, to ensure that the healing area remains protected and does not experience undue strain during recovery.

Key Recovery Facts Of Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery

Keep the surgical site clean and dry to prevent infection. Follow the pediatric urologist’s instructions for caring for the incision.
Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor the child’s recovery and check for any signs of complications.
Encourage the child to stay hydrated and avoid constipation, as both can affect the healing process.

Benefits of Having Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery

Prevention of Kidney Damage

Correcting vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) through surgery helps to prevent further kidney damage. Repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by VUR can lead to kidney scarring, which may impair kidney function over time. By correcting the reflux, the surgery significantly reduces the risk of kidney damage, ensuring that the kidneys remain healthy and functional.

Reduced Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

VUR surgery reduces the frequency of urinary tract infections in children. Recurrent UTIs are a common complication of VUR and can cause long-term damage if left untreated. The surgical correction improves urine flow and reduces reflux, effectively decreasing the likelihood of UTIs, and enhancing overall health by minimizing the risks of future infections.

Improved Quality of Life

Post-surgery, children with VUR experience a significant reduction in urinary infections and discomfort, leading to improved urinary health. As a result, children often enjoy a higher quality of life, with fewer hospital visits, less pain, and greater freedom to engage in normal activities. The surgery provides long-term relief, enabling children to lead more active and comfortable lives.

Long-Term Health Benefits

Surgical correction of VUR in childhood offers significant long-term health benefits. Early intervention prevents complications such as kidney failure, which may arise from untreated reflux. By addressing the issue early, the surgery ensures that the child’s kidneys remain healthy throughout their life, reducing the risk of more serious health problems as they grow into adulthood.

How Much Does Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery in Turkey Cost?

Turkey provides excellent pediatric urology services at affordable prices, making it a popular destination for families seeking high-quality care. When considering VUR surgery, the cost can vary depending on several factors:

Complexity of the Case: The severity of the condition and the type of surgery required can influence the cost.
Surgeon’s Expertise: Highly experienced surgeons may charge higher fees, though they offer specialized care.
Hospital Location: The hospital’s location also plays a role in the overall cost, with larger cities typically having slightly higher prices.

Despite these variables, Turkey remains a cost-effective option for families, offering world-class treatment without the high price tag found in many other countries.

Why Choose Prospero Medical for Your Surgery?

Prospero Medical works with leading pediatric urologists in Turkey, ensuring your child receives the best care available. Our team of experienced specialists is committed to providing personalized treatment plans that address each child’s unique needs. From the moment you reach out to us, we prioritize clear communication, patient comfort, and support.

We partner with world-class hospitals in Turkey, equipped with the latest medical technology to deliver effective and precise surgical solutions. Whether you are seeking a consultation, surgery, or post-operative care, we are with you every step of the way, providing peace of mind and the best outcomes for your child’s health.