Our Summary

This research paper reviews the benefits of a type of minimally invasive surgery called retroperitoneoscopy for treating common kidney and urinary tract diseases in children. This surgical method, which was developed about 20 years ago, has shown both benefits and drawbacks in various cases. Retroperitoneoscopy can be used for a range of surgeries, from removing all or part of a kidney, to more complex reconstructive surgeries. The success rate is comparable to traditional open surgery. However, not many studies have been conducted to directly compare the two methods. The latest research suggests that retroperitoneoscopy is a safe and effective method for treating children’s urological diseases, as long as the surgeon is properly trained. Pediatric urologists often prefer this method for treating kidney and upper urinary tract diseases, as it is a less invasive approach.

FAQs

  1. What is retroperitoneoscopy and what kind of surgeries can it be used for in pediatric urology?
  2. How does the success rate of retroperitoneoscopy compare to traditional open surgery for treating children’s urological diseases?
  3. What are some potential drawbacks of using retroperitoneoscopy for pediatric urologic reconstruction?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor may tell a patient that retroperitoneoscopy is a safe and effective method for treating pediatric urologic conditions, but it is important to ensure that the surgeon performing the procedure is properly trained in this technique. It is also important to discuss the potential benefits and risks of this minimally invasive approach compared to traditional open surgery. Additionally, the patient should be informed that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term outcomes of retroperitoneoscopy in pediatric urologic reconstruction.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended pediatric urologic reconstruction include children with congenital abnormalities of the urinary tract, such as ureteropelvic junction obstruction, vesicoureteral reflux, and posterior urethral valves. Other conditions that may require urologic reconstruction in children include hypospadias, bladder exstrophy, and epispadias. Additionally, children with traumatic injuries to the urinary tract or tumors affecting the kidneys or bladder may also benefit from pediatric urologic reconstruction. Overall, pediatric urologic reconstruction is recommended for children with complex urological conditions that require surgical intervention to improve their quality of life and prevent long-term complications.

Timeline

  • Before pediatric urologic reconstruction:
  1. Patient is diagnosed with a kidney or urinary tract disease that requires surgical intervention.
  2. Consultation with a pediatric urologist to discuss treatment options, including the possibility of retroperitoneoscopy.
  3. Pre-operative testing and preparation, including imaging studies and blood work.
  4. Surgery is scheduled and patient receives instructions on fasting and medication management.
  • After pediatric urologic reconstruction:
  1. Patient undergoes retroperitoneoscopy surgery under general anesthesia.
  2. Recovery period in the hospital, with monitoring of vital signs and pain management.
  3. Follow-up appointments with the pediatric urologist to assess healing and discuss any post-operative complications.
  4. Rehabilitation and physical therapy, if needed, to regain normal function and mobility.
  5. Long-term follow-up to monitor for any recurrence of the kidney or urinary tract disease.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific urologic conditions in children can be treated with retroperitoneoscopy?
  2. What are the potential benefits of retroperitoneoscopy compared to traditional open surgery for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  3. What are the potential risks or drawbacks of retroperitoneoscopy for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  4. How does the success rate of retroperitoneoscopy compare to traditional open surgery for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  5. Are there any specific qualifications or training that a surgeon should have in order to perform retroperitoneoscopy for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  6. What is the recovery process like for a child undergoing retroperitoneoscopy for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  7. Are there any long-term effects or considerations to keep in mind for children who undergo retroperitoneoscopy for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  8. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider for pediatric urologic reconstruction, and how do they compare to retroperitoneoscopy?
  9. What ongoing monitoring or follow-up care is recommended for a child who undergoes retroperitoneoscopy for pediatric urologic reconstruction?
  10. Are there any specific lifestyle changes or precautions that a child should take after undergoing retroperitoneoscopy for pediatric urologic reconstruction?

Reference

Authors: Cerulo M, Escolino M, Turrà F, Roberti A, Farina A, Esposito C. Journal: Curr Urol Rep. 2018 Apr 3;19(5):33. doi: 10.1007/s11934-018-0777-0. PMID: 29616411