TITLE:
Determining the Utility of Pathologic Analysis of Ureteral Specimens Obtained from Repair of Vesicoureteral Reflux and Ureterovesical Junction Obstruction in Children: Potential for Physician-Initiated Cost-Reduction
AUTHORS:
Unwanaobong Nseyo, Mark R. Anderson, John S. Wiener
KEYWORDS:
Vesicoureteral Reflux; Ureterovesical Junction Obstruction; Surgical Reimplantation; Ureteral Pathology
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Urology,
Vol.3 No.8,
December
11,
2013
ABSTRACT: Purpose: Partial resection of the distal ureter is commonly performed during
reconstructive surgery in pediatric urology; particularly for correction of
vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and ureterovesical junction obstruction (UVJO). Many
hospitals require pathologic examination of all excised tissues. We examined
the pathologic findings in such specimens to evaluate the utility of this
practice. Methods: We reviewed the findings on pathologic examination of distal
ureteral segments excised during surgical correction of VUR and UVJO in
children by a single surgeon over a 13-year period. Results: One hundred and ninety-one
specimens from 126 patients were reviewed. None were found to have any significant
pathologic findings that impacted therapy. Conclusion: Routine pathological
examination of distal ureteral segments excised during surgical correction of
VUR and UVJO is not warranted. This presents potential for cost and resource
reduction in care of these patients.