Bladder autoaugmentation with rectus muscle backing

Abstract

Purpose: Bladder autoaugmentation is a procedure which includes detrusoromyotomy or detrusorectomy to release intact urothelium which than prolapses and increases bladder capacity and compliance. The prolapsed urothelium is usually covered with de-epithelialized pedicled colonic or gastric patch. We present our initial experience with bladder autoaugmentation using rectus muscle backing.

Materials and methods: Between August 1999 and December 2000 autoaugmentation was performed in 4 girls and 3 boys 4 to 11 years old (median age 8). All patients had neurogenic bladder with small capacity and poor compliance. The technique is performed using an extraperitoneal approach through either an inferior midline longitudinal or transverse incision. The procedure is started with a semi-filled bladder to find the right plane and then continues with an almost empty bladder to avoid severe injury of the prolapsed urothelium. Both rectus muscles are dissected from the anterior and posterior sheaths and sutured to detrusor edges. Urothelium is sutured to the muscle at several places to prevent its retraction and shrinkage. Thus, the bladder is fixed and hangs on rectus muscles, that is the anterior abdominal wall.

Results: Followup was 10 to 25 months (median 16). Bladder capacity at 6 months postoperatively increased in all patients, and ranged from 162 to 368 ml. (median 266). All patients had clinical improvement, decreased hydronephrosis, no vesicoureteral reflux and better compliance.

Conclusions: Bladder autoaugmentation with rectus muscle backing is a safe and simple procedure. Rectus muscle is a good alternative to other backing materials.