Fogarty balloon catheter ablation of posterior urethral valves in neonates

ABSTRACT

Neonates with posterior urethral valves in developing countries, where costly endoscopic instruments are usually not available, are a special problem. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of fogarty balloon catheter ablation of posterior urethral valves as an alternative to endoscopic valve fulgaration. From January 2006 to December 2006, we received 07 neonates with Posterior Urethral Valves which were subjected to this technique. Their age range was between 5-26 days, while the weight range varied between 2.5 Kg to 3.5 Kg. Valves were ablated by using size 6F Fogarty catheter in the main operation theater under general anesthesia. Technique was successful in all the 7 neonates which was evident by a good stream of urine. Two patients had Grade III, while two patients had Grade IV vesicoureterric reflux before ablation. In patients with Grade IV reflux, reflux downgraded to Grade III on MCUG done 3 months after ablation. Patients with Grade III reflux were lost to follow up. Ablation of posterior urethral valves with Fogarty balloon catheter in neonates is simple, economical and effective way to treat these patients. Endoscopic valve fulgaration in neonates is hazardous and this technique is a good alternative, especially in developing countries