Neurogenic bladder dysfunction after sacrococcygeal teratoma resection

Abstract

Purpose: SCT treatment in newborns consists of surgery and selective chemotherapy. Few reports document urological sequelae using this approach. This review focuses on the urological and neurourological findings following SCT treatment in the newborn period.

Materials and methods: We reviewed the records of all infants with SCT resected in early infancy who underwent urodynamic evaluation for bladder dysfunction between 1986 and 2004. The radiological, neurological and urodynamic findings, and postoperative incontinence management were analyzed.

Results: We analyzed UDS of 14 patients who presented with urinary infection or incomplete bladder emptying after SCT resection. At the time of UDS an abnormal neurological examination was noted in 5 patients (36%). Detrusor overactivity was seen in 8 patients, underactivity in 2 and normal activity in 4. Abnormal urethral sphincter EMG potentials were observed in 7 of 13 patients (54%). Five of 13 patients (38%) had sphincter dyssynergia during voiding. Consequently, CIC was needed in 11 of the 14 patients (79%) to empty the bladder, of whom 5 also required anticholinergics to improve detrusor compliance and dryness. Only 3 patients voided spontaneously with normal bladder and sphincter function, of whom 2 were toilet trained. Hydronephrosis was seen in 6 patients and reflux was noted in 7 (including 5 of 6 with hydronephrosis). Antireflux surgery was performed in 6 patients, all of whom had up to grade 4 reflux due to recurrent urinary tract infection. One girl with grade 2 reflux had spontaneous resolution.

Conclusions: SCT and its treatment can produce neurourological dysfunction of the lower urinary tract with high grade reflux, and abnormal bladder and urethral function. Complete assessment, including urodynamic studies, is imperative preoperatively and postoperatively. Constant vigilance is required to maintain as near normal bladder function as possible and to prevent upper urinary tract injury.