What is this disease?

• Bladder exstrophy is a congenital abnormality that occurs when the skin over the lower abdominal wall does not form properly. The bladder is open and exposed on the outside of the abdomen. In epispadias, the urethra does not form properly.

How it is diagnosed?

• Clinical examination is essential for diagnosis.

How it is treated? 

• Bladder exstrophy and epispadias are corrected by multiple operations over the first few years of life. The overall aim of treatment is to prevent any kidney damage and correct the abnormalities so that the child’s urinary system and genitals work properly and look as normal as possible.

When it should be operated?

• The surgery depends upon clinical situation and associated anomalies of the child and treating team decided about optimal time of surgery. If neonate is able to tolerate ,bladder turn in is done in first stage.

Are there other alternative methods of treatment?

• In indicated cases, surgery is the treatment option.

 What all I need to know before my child surgery?

• Read “All you need to know before your child’s surgery” information booklet in website

How is the surgery done?

• There are many procedures to repair exstrophy. It is done in stages. In first stage, bladder turn in is done followed by epispadias repair. Bladder neck reconstruction is done for continence. Your doctor will discuss these in detail with you.

Remarks

• For more details of surgery, contact your surgeon.

Related Photographs and videos

• Few photographs of steps done by me is given here for learning purposes