Long-term followup after endoscopic treatment of vesicoureteral reflux with dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer in patients with neurogenic bladder.

PURPOSE

Subureteral injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer is a minimally invasive method to treat vesicoureteral reflux. We report short and long-term success in treating secondary vesicoureteral reflux in patients with neurogenic bladder dysfunction or severe voiding dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective chart review of all subureteral injection procedures done to identify patients with neurogenic bladder or severe voiding dysfunction. Short (less than 12 months) and long-term vesicoureteral reflux results for patients and ureters were recorded. Preoperative urodynamics and radiographic findings were reviewed. Preoperative factors were evaluated to identify patients with greater chances of success.

RESULTS

A total of 12 patients (17 ureters) were identified (10 with neurogenic bladder and 2 with Hinman syndrome). Short-term success (no vesicoureteral reflux) was achieved in 50% of patients and 58% of ureters. At a median followup of 4.5 years (range 1 to 9) success decreased to 35% of ureters. Overall, long-term success was found in 25% of patients who were free of vesicoureteral reflux and required no additional surgery. Of the patients 41% required additional urological surgery for vesicoureteral reflux or related conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

With long-term followup many patients who had initial improvement in vesicoureteral reflux ultimately experienced treatment failure and recurrence of reflux. At a median of 4.5 years 25% of patients with neurogenic bladder and vesicoureteral reflux were successfully treated with endoscopic injection of dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer.