This guide explains the most common signs that your child may need a pediatric urologist, what these symptoms could mean, and how early treatment can protect their long-term health.

Who Is a Pediatric Urologist?

A pediatric urologist is a specialist doctor who diagnoses and treats urinary and genital problems in babies, children, and teenagers. This includes conditions affecting:

• Kidneys
• Ureters (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder)
• Bladder
• Urethra (tube that carries urine out of the body)
• Genitals (penis, testicles, scrotum in boys; and related structures in girls)

Unlike general urologists, pediatric urologists are trained to work specifically with children. They understand children’s unique anatomy, growth patterns, and emotional needs, and they use child-friendly techniques to make kids feel comfortable during evaluation and treatment.

1. Pain or Burning While Urinating

What you may notice:

• Your child says, “It hurts when I pee.”
• Crying or screaming during urination (common in toddlers and younger children).
• Refusing to use the toilet because of pain.

What it could mean:

• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Bladder or urethral irritation
• Narrowing of the urethra
• Stones in the urinary tract, in rare cases

If your child often complains of pain while peeing, or if this symptom keeps coming back despite treatment, it’s important to consult a pediatric urologist. Persistent pain during urination should never be ignored, especially when combined with fever, blood in urine, or abdominal pain.

2. Frequent Urination or Sudden Urgency

Signs to watch for:

• Needing to pee very often, even if only a small amount of urine comes out
• Rushing to the bathroom urgently and sometimes not making it in time
• Waking up many times at night to urinate

Possible causes:

• Overactive bladder
• Urinary tract infection
• Bladder dysfunction or incomplete bladder emptying
• Constipation-related bladder issues

Frequent urination can disrupt your child’s sleep and school life. If lifestyle changes and basic treatment are not helping, a pediatric urologist can perform detailed tests to check bladder function and suggest targeted therapies.

3. Bedwetting Beyond the Usual Age

Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) is very common in young children. Many children outgrow it naturally. However, you should consider seeing a pediatric urologist if:

• Bedwetting continues beyond 6–7 years of age on a regular basis
• Your child was dry at night earlier but has started bedwetting again
• Bedwetting is associated with daytime accidents, pain, or frequent urination

What could be going on:

• Bladder capacity or control issues
• Overactive bladder
• Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract
• In rare cases, neurological or hormonal problems

A pediatric urologist can help identify whether the bedwetting is simply developmental or a sign of an underlying medical condition. They can also guide you on lifestyle measures, alarm therapy, medications, and bladder training techniques if needed.

4. Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)

Seeing blood in your child’s urine can be frightening. It may appear as:

• Pink, red, or brownish urine
• Small blood clots in urine
• Blood seen only on a urine test (microscopic hematuria)

Possible reasons include:

• Urinary tract infection
• Kidney stones
• Injury to the kidney or urinary tract
• Structural abnormalities
• Certain kidney diseases

Any episode of blood in the urine should be evaluated promptly. A pediatric urologist can perform urine tests, imaging (such as ultrasound), and other studies to find the cause and start the right treatment early.

5. Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are more common in children than many parents realize, especially in girls and in uncircumcised boys. Signs of a UTI include:

• Fever without obvious cause
• Pain or burning during urination
• Foul-smelling or cloudy urine
• Abdominal or back pain
• Irritability or feeding issues in infants

If your child gets UTIs repeatedly, this could point to:

• Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) – urine flowing back from bladder to kidneys
• Obstruction in the urinary tract
• Functional bladder issues (not emptying completely)

Recurrent UTIs can damage the kidneys over time if not treated correctly. A pediatric urologist can perform specialized tests to look for reflux, blockages, or other abnormalities and plan appropriate treatment to protect kidney health.

6. Swelling or Pain in the Testicles or Groin (in Boys)

For boys, some genital symptoms require urgent attention. You should seek immediate medical evaluation – preferably by a pediatric urologist or emergency department – if you notice:

• Sudden, severe pain in one testicle
• Swelling, redness, or hardness of the scrotum
• One testicle appearing much higher than the other
• Nausea, vomiting, or crying with scrotal pain

These may be signs of:

• Testicular torsion (twisting of the testicle) – a surgical emergency
• Infection or inflammation of the testicle or epididymis
• Trauma-related injury

Other non-urgent concerns that still need pediatric urology evaluation include:

• Undescended testicles (testicles not present in the scrotum) after 6 months of age
• Hydrocele (fluid-filled swelling around the testicle)
• Hernia in the groin
• Noticeable difference in testicle size

These problems may affect fertility and hormone function later in life if not treated at the right time.

7. Abnormalities in the Penis or Genitals

Some genital differences are visible soon after birth, while others become noticeable as the child grows. Reasons to see a pediatric urologist include:

• Hypospadias – opening of the urethra is not at the tip of the penis but on the underside
• Chordee – bent or curved penis, especially during erection
• Foreskin that cannot be retracted (phimosis) with pain, infections, or ballooning while urinating
• Recurrent redness, swelling, or infections of the foreskin
• Very small opening for urine, causing a thin or forceful stream

Many of these conditions can be corrected with safe surgical procedures when done by a trained pediatric urologist. Early evaluation helps in planning surgery at the best age and reducing emotional stress for both child and parents.

8. Abdominal, Side, or Back Pain Related to Urination

Unexplained pain in the side, back, or lower abdomen that seems connected to urination should never be ignored. You may notice:

• Your child complaining of “tummy pain” while or after peeing
• Holding the side or back during painful episodes
• Nausea or vomiting along with pain

This could be related to:

• Kidney stones
• Blockage in the ureter
• Swelling of the kidneys due to obstruction (hydronephrosis)

A pediatric urologist will typically recommend imaging tests like ultrasound to find the cause and will guide you about medication, dietary changes, or surgery if required.

9. Difficulty Starting or Stopping Urine Flow

If your child struggles to start urinating, has a weak stream, or dribbles urine after finishing, it may indicate:

• Narrowing of the urethra
• Bladder outlet obstruction
• Functional voiding problems

In boys, straining or a very thin urine stream can also be a sign of structural issues requiring detailed evaluation and sometimes surgical correction. Early intervention can prevent future bladder and kidney damage.

10. Congenital (Birth) Abnormalities Detected on Ultrasound

Sometimes, abnormalities in the kidneys or urinary tract are first noticed during pregnancy or soon after birth, such as:

• Dilated kidney (antenatal hydronephrosis)
• Duplicate collecting systems (double ureters)
• Structural abnormalities of the bladder or urethra

When Should Parents Not Delay?

You should seek prompt advice from a pediatric urologist if you notice:

• Persistent or recurrent urinary symptoms (pain, frequency, urgency)
• Bedwetting with other urinary complaints or behavioral changes
• Any visible blood in urine
• Recurrent fever suspected to be from urinary infections
• Swelling, pain, or redness of the genitals, especially sudden testicular pain in boys
• Noticeable abnormalities of the penis, testicles, or urinary opening

Early diagnosis can:

• Prevent long-term kidney damage
• Reduce the need for major surgeries later
• Improve bladder control and quality of life
• Reduce emotional stress and embarrassment for your child

How a Pediatric Urologist Evaluates Your Child

A typical visit may include:

1. Detailed history
   • Symptoms, duration, toilet habits, past infections, family history.
2. Physical examination
   • Abdomen, back, external genitalia, and sometimes a gentle rectal exam in older children if needed.
3. Tests and imaging
   • Urine tests and cultures
   • Ultrasound of kidneys and bladder
   • Special imaging like MCU/VCUG, nuclear scans, or uroflowmetry (to study urine flow), when indicated.
4. Management plan
   • Lifestyle and dietary changes
   • Medications
   • Bladder training, physiotherapy, or behavior therapy
   • Minimally invasive or open surgery for structural problems, when required

Pediatric urologists focus on both physical and emotional comfort. Many clinics are designed to be child-friendly, helping kids feel relaxed during visits and procedures.

Supporting Your Child Emotionally

Urinary and genital problems can be embarrassing or frightening for children. As a parent, you can help by:

• Staying calm and reassuring – avoid shaming or blaming the child.
• Explaining that many kids have similar problems and that doctors can help.
• Encouraging them to talk openly about their symptoms.
• Respecting their privacy, especially in older children and teens.

When you choose a qualified pediatric urologist, you get a partner who not only treats the condition but also understands your child’s emotional needs. Symptoms like repeated pain while urinating, frequent UTIs, persistent bedwetting, blood in urine, or visible genital abnormalities should never be ignored. Early evaluation and treatment can prevent complications. If you are a parent looking for expert, child-friendly care, do not hesitate to consult a pediatric urologist in Pune.

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What is a Testicuar Torsion?

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord, which provides blood flow to the testicles, twists, leading to reduced blood flow and potential damage to the testicle. While it can occur at any age, including in children, it is crucial to understand the unique aspects of testicular torsion in pediatric cases.

Symptoms  of Testicular Torsion

Testicular torsion in children is a medical emergency that demands immediate attention. Early recognition and understanding of the diagnostic process are essential for preserving testicular function. The following is a detailed overview:

Sudden and Severe Pain

• Often, children who suffer from testicular torsion experience sudden and intense pain in the scrotum as a result of the condition.
• In addition to pain in the lower abdomen or groin area, the pain may also radiate to the lower back.

Swelling and redness

• The affected testicle might become swollen and appear larger compared to the other testicles.
• There may be redness or discoloration of the scrotal skin as a result of the infection.

Abdominal pain and nausea

• Children may complain of abdominal pain, which can accompany the scrotal pain.
• Vomiting may also occur, reflecting the severity of the condition.

Change in Testicle Position

• In some cases, parents may notice a change in the position of the testicle within the scrotum.
• The affected testicle may appear higher than usual.

 Reluctance to Move or Walk

• Due to the pain, children with testicular torsion may be reluctant to move or walk.
• The discomfort can be severe enough to limit physical activity.
• Highlighting the sudden and intense pain experienced.
• Discussing other symptoms such as swelling and discoloration.
• The importance of seeking immediate medical attention.

Treatment Options for Testicular Torsion in Children

Testicular torsion in children is a surgical emergency that requires immediate intervention to restore blood flow to the affected testicle. The primary goal of treatment is to untwist the spermatic cord and secure the testicle to prevent future episodes. Here are the key treatment options:

 Surgical Detorsion

• The most common and urgent treatment for testicular torsion in children is surgical detorsion.
• The procedure involves untwisting the spermatic cord to restore blood flow to the testicle.
• This can often be achieved through a small incision in the scrotum.

Testicular Fixation

• Following a successful detorsion, an orchiopexy may be performed to secure the testicle in its normal position within the scrotum.
• This involves fixing the testicle to the inner lining of the scrotum to prevent future episodes of torsion.
• Testicular fixation is typically recommended even if the testicle appears normal after detorsion to reduce the risk of recurrence.

 Follow-up Care

• After surgery, children will require careful monitoring and follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider.
• Monitoring includes assessing the blood flow to the testicles and evaluating for any signs of complications.

 Education and Prevention

• Parents and caregivers should be educated about the importance of recognizing symptoms early and seeking prompt medical attention.
• Pediatricians may discuss preventive measures with families, especially if there are anatomical factors or a family history that increases the child’s risk.

Birth Defects Defined

Birth defects, or congenital anomalies, are structural or functional abnormalities present at birth. These conditions can affect various parts of the body, ranging from mild to severe, and may impact the overall health, development, or functionality of the child. Birth defects can result from genetic factors, environmental exposures, or a combination of both.

Genetic Factors

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Alterations in the quantity or arrangement of chromosomes can lead to specific birth defects. For example, Down syndrome is characterized by an extra copy of chromosome 21.

 Single-gene mutations

Some defects result from changes in a single gene. Single-gene mutations are responsible for the development of cystic fibrosis and sickle cell anemia.

Environmental Factors

Maternal Exposures

It’s important to know that exposure to certain substances during pregnancy, like drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or infections, can put the baby at risk of developing birth defects. For instance, if a pregnant woman is exposed to thalidomide, it can lead to limb abnormalities in the baby. So it’s crucial to stay away from such harmful substances during pregnancy to ensure the baby’s healthy development.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Not getting enough nutrients, especially in the early stages of pregnancy, can lead to birth defects. When there is a lack of folic acid, for instance, it has been linked to neural tube defects.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, while testicular torsion is a serious medical condition affecting the testicles, it does not fit the criteria of a birth defect. The origins of testicular torsion are primarily related to anatomical features and genetic factors rather than developmental anomalies during birth. Understanding the distinction between birth defects and conditions like testicular torsion is crucial for accurate information dissemination and can contribute to better awareness and prevention strategies for this emergency medical condition.

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Understanding Torsion Testis

Torsion of the testis occurs when the spermatic cord, which provides blood flow to the testicle, twists. This twist can block the blood vessels, leading to ischemia (lack of blood supply) and testicular damage.

Signs and Symptoms of Torsion Testis in Children

Torsion testis presents with specific signs and symptoms that should raise concern for parents and healthcare providers. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Sudden and Severe scrotal or groin Pain: One of the primary symptoms of the torsion testis is sudden and severe pain in the affected testicle. The pain may be accompanied by swelling and tenderness.
• Abdominal Pain: Children with torsion testis may experience abdominal pain, which can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions such as appendicitis.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Due to the intensity of pain, children with torsion testis may experience nausea and vomiting.
• Abnormal Testicular Position: In some cases, the affected testicle may be positioned higher than usual or may be positioned horizontally rather than vertically.

Treatment Options

Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to salvage the affected testicle. The following treatment approaches may be considered:

• Manual Detorsion

If the diagnosis is made early and the blood flow is not severely compromised, the testicle can sometimes be manually detorsed. This procedure involves carefully rotating the testicle back into its normal position to restore blood flow. However, manual detorsion is a temporary measure and should be followed by definitive surgical treatment to prevent a recurrence.

• Surgery

Surgical intervention is typically required to permanently fix the testicle and prevent future episodes of torsion.

• Orchidopexy

Orchidopexy is a surgical procedure that involves fixing the testicle in its proper position to prevent torsion. This procedure is often performed on the healthy Testis during the same surgical intervention used to destrose the testicle. This is to prevent torsion of the healthy Testis in the future.

• Removal of Nonviable Testicle

In cases where the blood supply to the testicle has been compromised for an extended period, the testicle may become nonviable. In such cases, surgical removal of the affected testicle may be necessary.

Conclusion

Testicular torsion is an emergency that requires immediate pediatric surgical treatment. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of torsion testis in children, such as sudden and severe testicular pain, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in testicular position. Prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are crucial to restore blood flow to the affected testicle and prevent permanent damage. Timely treatment can help preserve testicular function and ensure the best possible outcome for your child’s urological health Consult Dr. Geeta Kekre for the best treatment.

About Dr. Geeta Kekre

Dr. Geeta Kekre is a Paediatric Surgeon in Pune She is a specialist in pediatric minimal access surgery including robotic surgery as well as reconstructive pediatric urology. After ten years in Mumbai, Dr. Kekre returned to her hometown bringing with her a passion for the surgical care of children and a distinct set of skills in the areas of pediatric minimal access surgery, pediatric endourology, fetal hydronephrosis and antenatal parental counseling, pediatric incontinence, and voiding dysfunction.  Her focus is on tailoring surgical therapy to allow her patients to have as active and fun a childhood as possible while delivering the best achievable medical outcomes.

The post Torsion Testis in Children: Signs, Symptoms & Treatment appeared first on Dr. Geeta Kekre.

Understanding VesicoUreteral Reflux (VUR)

VUR occurs when the valve between the bladder and the ureter, the tube connecting the bladder to the kidneys, does not function properly. This allows urine to flow back into the kidneys, increasing the risk of kidney infections and potential kidney damage. VUR is often diagnosed in early childhood, and its severity is graded based on the amount of reflux and the potential for kidney damage.

The Role of Robotic Surgery in Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)

Robotic surgery has revolutionized the treatment of VUR in children, offering several advantages over traditional open surgery or laparoscopic techniques. Dr. Geeta Kekre, a highly skilled pediatric surgeon in Pune, utilizes robotic surgery to provide optimal outcomes for her young patients with VUR.

Benefits of robotic surgery in the management of VUR:

• Precision and Visualization: Robotic surgery offers enhanced visualization and precise movements, allowing surgeons like to perform complex procedures with greater accuracy. The high-definition 3D imaging and magnification provided by the robotic system enable a clear view of the surgical field, facilitating precise repair of the refluxing valve.
• Minimally Invasive Approach: Robotic surgery is minimally invasive, resulting in smaller incisions and reduced trauma to the surrounding tissues. This translates into less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring for children undergoing VUR repair.
• Reduced Complications: The robotic system’s advanced technology and flexibility allow for precise suturing and reconstruction of the valve, minimizing the risk of complications. This is particularly important in delicate structures like the urinary tract, where precision is crucial for optimal outcomes.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Robotic surgery for VUR typically requires a shorter hospital stay compared to traditional open surgery. Children undergoing robotic VUR repair can often return to their normal activities sooner, reducing the disruption to their daily lives.
• Improved Cosmetic Outcome: The small incisions used in robotic surgery result in less visible scars, leading to improved cosmetic outcomes for children. This is particularly significant in pediatric patients, as they can feel more self-confident and comfortable with their appearance after surgery.

Conclusion

Robotic surgery has transformed the management of VUR in children, offering numerous benefits over traditional surgical approaches. The precision, minimally invasive approach, and reduced complications associated with robotic surgery contribute to improved outcomes and faster recovery for young patients.
If your child has been diagnosed with Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), consult with Dr. Geeta Kekre to understand the role of robotic surgery in managing this condition.

About Dr. Geeta Kekre

Dr. Geeta Kekre is a Paediatric Surgeon in Pune She is a specialist in pediatric minimal access surgery including robotic surgery as well as reconstructive pediatric urology. After ten years in Mumbai, Dr. Kekre returned to her hometown bringing with her a passion for the surgical care of children and a distinct set of skills in the areas of pediatric minimal access surgery, pediatric endourology, fetal hydronephrosis and antenatal parental counseling, pediatric incontinence, and voiding dysfunction.  Her focus is on tailoring surgical therapy to allow her patients to have as active and fun a childhood as possible while delivering the best achievable medical outcomes.

The post The Role of Robotic Surgery in the Management of Vesico-Ureteral Reflux in Children appeared first on Dr. Geeta Kekre.

The job of the rectum and the anus is to store waste material (stool) and expel it from the body. In the absence of a properly formed anus and rectum, the waste material keeps collecting in the intestines leading to complications. These complications can be completely avoided by prompt surgical interventions.

What are the types of anorectal malformations?

Anorectal malformations appear differently in boys and girls.

In boys, the terminal part of the digestive tract may open into the urethra near the prostate forming a recto-prostatic fistula, or into the bulbar urethra forming a recto-bulbar fistula. These fistulae are very narrow and cannot expel stool. Sometimes these boys may expel a tiny drop of meconium (the baby’s very first stool) at the urethra, or they may pass urine mixed with meconium (meconuria).

Sometimes the malformation can occur at a higher level, and the digestive tract can open into the urinary bladder at its neck. This is called a bladder neck fistula. These malformations can be challenging to treat as the bladder neck plays an important role in urinary continence.

Still another type of anorectal malformation results in the digestive tract ending in a blind pouch with no communication to any other part. Alternatively, the digestive tract can open on the perineum through a small, abnormal aperture called a perineal fistula. Finally, the anus and the rectum may develop to reach the usual anal site, but they may be too narrow (anorectal stenosis) or blocked somewhere along their length (rectal atresia).

In girls, the most common anorectal malformation is a vestibular fistula. In this type of malformation, the digestive tract ends in a tiny, abnormal fistula that opens just behind the vagina, sharing a wall with it. Perineal fistulas, blind-ending malformations with no fistula, anorectal stenosis, and rectal atresia may also occur in girls as they do in boys.

The anatomy of a vestibular fistula type of anorectal malformation in girls. The rectum opens through a fistula just behind the vagina instead of passing through the sphincter muscle complex to form a normal anus.

A complex anomaly that occurs in girls is the cloaca. In this malformation, the digestive tract, the urinary tract, and the reproductive tract open into a single common channel. Such children have a single opening in their perineum for meconium, urine, and mucus from the uterine tract to exit. Cloaca is very commonly associated with malformations of the lower urinary tract, vagina, and uterus.

Identifying the type of anorectal malformation is important to plan surgical repair. The pediatric surgeon orders a series of tests to determine the type of malformation. In many cases, the exact anatomy of the malformation is determined just before or as a part of reconstructive surgery.

Can there be other conditions in the baby along with Anorectal malformations (ARM)?

At least 50% of children born with an ARM have some associated congenital condition. The most common systems to be affected in these children are the urinary system (kidneys, ureters, and bladder), the heart, the spine, and the food pipe. A number of children also have limb deformities.

All babies found to have an ARM are screened for these conditions and treated accordingly. Some of the common conditions are:

1. Vesicoureteral reflux (urinary system)
2. Ventricular Septal Defect (heart)
3. Hemivertebrae (spine)
4. Tracheoesophageal fistula and esophageal atresia (food pipe).

This association of anomalies is often called VACTERL association or VACTERL Syndrome, wherein VACTERL stands for Vertebral, Anorectal, Cardiac, Tracheo-Esophageal, Renal, and Limb. A child is said to have the syndrome if at least three of these defects are present together.

What happens if my newborn baby has anorectal malformations?

Most of the time, the pediatrician attending the delivery will examine the baby to rule out any anorectal malformation. If your baby is found to have an anorectal malformation, you will be instructed not to feed the baby until the pediatric surgeon has seen the child. Rarely, the condition may come to the attention of the parents first. In either case, a pediatric surgeon needs to be called in at the earliest.

The pediatric surgeon will examine the baby physically and order X-rays. He or she will also look for associated anomalies, especially esophageal atresia as it needs immediate attention. The immediate priority is to create an outlet for the pent-up intestinal contents, failing which the intestines could rupture leading to a life-threatening situation.  Findings from the physical exam and the X-rays will help the surgeon decide on one of the following:

a) Immediate corrective surgery- This is possible in certain types of malformations where the digestive tract has developed almost all the way to the anus. The surgeon will perform the surgery when the baby is at least 24 hours old. An anus is created at its normal position.

b) Delayed corrective surgery- in malformations such as vestibular fistulae or perineal fistulae, the opening may be big enough to allow the baby’s meconium and first milk stool to pass easily, but too small for formed stool. In such a case, the operation can be deferred till the baby gains some weight. Daily gentle dilation of the fistula with a feeding tube may be required till the operation.

c) Colostomy construction followed by delayed corrective surgery- this plan of action is followed in boys with recto prostatic or retrobulbar fistula or blind pouches and in girls with cloaca or blind pouches. Boys and girls with rectal atresia also need this line of treatment. First, the surgeon creates a colostomy which is an opening of the large intestine onto the abdominal wall. The baby’s meconium and stool are expelled through this opening and collected in a colostomy bag. This temporary outlet for intestinal waste and stool is created so that the baby can feed and grow. When the baby has gained sufficient weight, corrective surgery is performed. A third surgery is then needed to close the colostomy.

What are the various corrective surgeries that can be performed?

The type of corrective surgery ultimately performed depends on the anatomy of the malformation. The goal of all these surgeries is to create a new anus that lies at the center of the sphincter muscle complex, which is a group of muscles that help us control our bowel movements. Placement of the new anus and rectum at the center of this muscle complex is critical for the future continence of the child. These surgeries include:

PSARP– The Posterior Sagittal AnoRectoPlasty or PSARP, first described by Dr. Alberto Peña (pronounce peh-nyah) in 1982, has revolutionized surgery for anorectal malformations. For this surgery, the patient is positioned face-down and frog-legged on the operating table. The buttock muscles are split in the midline and the bowel is mobilized and brought to the center of these muscles. The bowel is then fixed in place and the muscles are closed around it. There is no abdominal incision for this surgery. It can be performed for blind pouches without a fistula, recto-prostatic fistulae, recto-bulbar fistulae, perineal fistulae, and vestibular fistulae.

ASARP– Described by Okada and Kamata in 1992, the Anterior Sagittal AnoRectoPlasty is similar in principle to the PSARP but is performed with the child lying flat on the back and frog-legged. The buttock muscles are split in the midline but this splitting is limited as compared to PSARP. It can be performed for vestibular fistulae and perineal fistulae. In these types of malformations, the decision on whether an ASARP or a PSARP is used depends on the surgeon’s experience with the two methods. The procedures are anatomically essentially the same, as are their outcomes.

Laparoscopic Abdominoperineal Pull Through– This surgery is performed for high fistulae such as bladder neck fistulae. The fistula is tied off through the abdomen and the bowel is mobilized laparoscopically. The buttock muscles are then split in the midline and the bowel is placed in the center. This procedure can be performed by conventional surgery as well giving an incision on the abdomen.

PSAVURP– The Posterior Sagittal AnoRectoVaginoPlasty is a complex operation performed to correct the cloaca. It is similar to PSARP in its approach. Depending on the anatomy of the malformation, supplemental procedures may be required to reconstruct the genito-urinary tract. Thus the reconstruction may either be staged or performed in one go.

How do I care for my baby after surgery?

If your baby has been given a colostomy, you will be taught how to care for the colostomy at home. The colostomy will not be closed until after the corrective surgery.

After corrective surgery, if your child has a colostomy, you may be allowed to resume feeding a few hours after surgery. In the absence of an ostomy, feeding may have to be withheld for a few days. In such a case, your child will be given the required nutrition through an intravenous drip. You will be taught how to care for the wound and how to keep it clean.

About two weeks after surgery, you will be taught to dilate the new anus. This procedure is important to make sure that the anus does not tighten up and close off. A dilator that fits snugly into the anus is passed twice a day. The size of the dilator is increased till the anus has become an appropriate size. If your child has a colostomy, this is the time when it can be closed. The dilation has to be continued after the closure of the colostomy for at least a year, although the frequency of dilation is reduced. The size of the dilator to use and the frequency of dilation will be monitored by the surgeon.

Follow-up with the surgeon is necessary at least till your child has toilet trained. Annual follow-up till your child is an adult is desirable. Monitoring/ treatment of associated conditions, if any, will continue as well. Once your baby has been weaned, he or she may have to follow some dietary modifications to avoid constipation.

Will my baby toilet train normally after the surgery?

Children with anorectal malformation find it more difficult to toilet train than others for a variety of reasons. Be prepared for your child to achieve continence at a later age than his or her peers. These children are also very prone to constipation, so be careful not to mistake constipation for early continence. The potential for continence in the child depends mainly on the anatomy of the malformation. The surgeon will be able to explain this to you during your early visits.

However, if your child is unable to wear normal underwear by the age of five years, there are a number of surgical and nonsurgical methods to help him or her achieve a level of continence that allows him or her to enjoy normal social interactions.  We have a bowel management program that focuses on a combination of diet and washouts to help keep the child clean. Surgical procedures such as a MACE (Malone’s antegrade colonic enema) can be performed to help the child take care of themselves. Most children with anorectal malformations do achieve a level of continence that allows them to lead a full, productive life.

What is the long-term outlook for my child?

Most children with anorectal malformation grow up to live independent productive lives. The presence and severity of associated conditions are major determining factors though. In the absence of a severe associated condition, these children develop greater insight into their own continence mechanisms and are able to participate more fully in their bowel management. They are usually able to have normal social and professional interactions. Girls born with an anorectal malformation may have associated structural anomalies in their uterus which might become significant at the time of menarche. These anomalies are all treatable. Some women born with anorectal malformation may need assisted reproductive techniques at the time of starting a family, and childbirth is usually by cesarean section, given that their perineal body has undergone reconstruction. All in all, anorectal malformations have a good prognosis today, and the future is even more hopeful.

About Dr. Geeta Kekre

Dr. Geeta Kekre is a Paediatric Urologist in Pune She is a specialist in pediatric minimal access surgery including robotic surgery as well as reconstructive pediatric urology. After ten years in Mumbai, Dr. Kekre returned to her hometown bringing with her a passion for the surgical care of children and a distinct set of skills in the areas of pediatric minimal access surgery, pediatric endourology, fetal hydronephrosis and antenatal parental counseling, pediatric incontinence, and voiding dysfunction. Dr. Geeta Kekre has a keen interest in clinical academics with over 42 publications in various international journals, including 9 original articles and 32 rare case reports. Her focus is on tailoring surgical therapy to allow her patients to have as active and fun a childhood as possible while delivering the best achievable medical outcomes.

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