To Cohen and forget? Evaluation of postoperative imaging studies after transtrigonal ureteric reimplantation for vesicoureteric reflux in children.

OBJECTIVES To determine the clinical significance of routine postoperative voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) and renal functional studies in the postoperative management of children after a transtrigonal ureteric reimplantation. METHODS A retrospective record review of 126 consecutive patients undergoing transtrigonal ureteric reimplantation. Inclusion criteria included primary reflux and >5 years of follow-up. Follow-up imaging studies consisted of serial renal ultrasounds (US) and one VCUG and intravenous urogram (IVU) each. RESULTS Of 126 patients, 2 required a reoperation for contralateral reflux and pyelonephritis. In all other patients the results of the VCUG did not alter management. Dilatation seen in IVU was always visible in the renal US as well and always resolved spontaneously. No new dilatation was observed after 1 year of follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Routine postoperative VCUG and renal functional studies are not warranted in asymptomatic patients after transtrigonal reimplantation. Only in patients with postoperative pyelonephritis did the imaging studies alter the treatment. In the majority of patients, follow-up with an early and 1-year renal US may suffice. Elimination of routine VCUG and functional studies will decrease morbidity and cost after ureteric reimplantation.