Ileocystoplasty in children: assessing safety and success.

From 1987 to 1992, bladder augmentation using clam ileocystoplasty was performed in 39 children 1.5-17.5 years old (mean age 9.7 years). Indications for augmentation included neuropathic bladder, epispadias-exstrophy complex and posterior urethral valves. A satisfactory bladder capacity at safe storage pressures of < 20 cm saline was achieved in all patients. Hydroureteronephrosis resolved or improved in 33 of the 36 moieties (91.7%). No patient showed biochemical or radiological deterioration of the upper tracts. The incidence of symptomatic urinary tract infection fell significantly postoperatively. Seven patients (17.9%) developed a total of 10 complications, with rupture of the augmented bladder occurring in 4 patients (10.3%).