Pediatric Urology Surgical Treatments Available at SHRC:

1. Circumcision Surgery

Circumcision is the removal of the foreskin from the penis, often performed for medical or cultural reasons. In infants and young children, circumcision may be recommended for conditions such as:

Phimosis: When the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the head of the penis.

Recurrent Infections: Frequent infections beneath the foreskin that may require surgical intervention.

2. Hypospadias Repair

Hypospadias is a congenital condition where the urethral opening is located on the underside of the penis instead of the tip. This condition is typically treated with surgery to correct the positioning of the urethral opening. The surgery may include:

Urethral Reconstruction: Moving the urethral opening to the tip of the penis and reconstructing the urethra.

Grafting: If necessary, grafts may be used to improve the appearance and functionality of the penis.

3. Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR) Surgery

VUR is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the kidneys, which can lead to kidney infections or damage. Surgery may be necessary when the condition is severe or when antibiotics are ineffective. Surgical options include:

Reimplantation Surgery: The ureters are surgically repositioned and reattached to the bladder to prevent urine reflux.

4. Obstructive Uropathy Surgery

Obstructive uropathy occurs when there is a blockage in the urinary tract, preventing the normal flow of urine. This can result in kidney damage if left untreated. Surgical treatment options include:

Pyeloplasty: A surgery to correct a blockage at the junction of the kidney and ureter, often used for conditions such as hydronephrosis.

Nephrectomy: Removal of a nonfunctional or severely damaged kidney.

5. Cryptorchidism Surgery (Undescended Testicle Repair)

In this condition, one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum. If not corrected, it may lead to fertility issues or an increased risk of testicular cancer later in life. Surgery is often performed between 6 months and 1 year of age to:

Orchidopexy: The surgical procedure to move the undescended testicle into the scrotum and secure it in place.

6. Testicular Torsion Surgery

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord twists, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. This condition requires immediate surgical intervention to save the testicle. Surgery includes:

Detorsion and Fixation: The testicle is untwisted, and in some cases, both testicles are fixed to prevent future torsion.

7. Bladder Exstrophy Repair

Bladder exstrophy is a rare birth defect where the bladder is exposed outside the body. Surgical intervention is required to close the bladder and reconstruct the pelvic area. The surgery typically involves:

Initial Closure Surgery: Repositioning the bladder and reconstructing the urinary tract.

Subsequent Reconstructive Procedures: Additional surgeries may be needed as the child grows to ensure normal function.

8. Pediatric Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Surgery

Recurrent urinary tract infections in children may require surgical intervention if the infections are caused by underlying anatomical issues such as reflux, obstruction, or an abnormality in the kidneys or bladder. Procedures may include:

Surgical Correction of VUR: Repositioning the ureters to prevent urine backflow.

Bladder Augmentation:For children with bladder dysfunction or small bladder capacity, a surgical procedure may be performed to enlarge the bladder.

9. Kidney Stone Surgery in Children

While kidney stones are rare in children, they can occur and may require surgical treatment. Options include:

Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL): A minimally invasive procedure for large stones, where a small incision is made in the back to remove the stones.

Ureteroscopy: A procedure where a small scope is passed through the urethra to break up or remove stones in the urinary tract.

10. Phimosis Surgery (Preputioplasty)

If phimosis (tight foreskin) is severe or causes urinary problems, surgery may be needed to either remove the foreskin or create a slit to allow for easier retraction. This procedure may be done when the condition is causing symptoms such as pain or infection.