Two kinds of
elimination disorders can be associated with
Vesico Ureteral Reflux (VUR): pure bladder
elimination disorders or combination of bladder and bowel
elimination disorders. An
elimination disorder is always
a factor which worsens the prognosis of VUR, as it increases the risk of infectious complications and thus presents a threat for the upper urinary tract. Regarding pure bladder
elimination disorders, a chronic urine residue is observed in four clinical situations: the syndrome megacystis-mega ureter; the mega bladder without mega ureter, but with VUR; high grade massive VUR without a mega bladder; organic obstructions of the urethra (such as posterior urethral valves.). VUR associated with urine and fecal
elimination disorders cover functional pelvi perineal
dyscoordination, bladder sphincter dysynergia, disturbances of visceral motricity and anal sphincter function. The most characteristic type is represented by the neuropathic detrusor-sphincter dysfunction; also enter in this category neurogenic non-neurogenic bladders (Hinman's syndrome); However the vast majority of urine and fecal
elimination disorders is represented by non neuropathic perineal
dyscoordination associating at various degrees: voiding postponement, lack of sphincter relaxation during micturation, interrupted voiding, and
constipation. The diagnosis of
elimination disorders associated with VUR is based on non invasive investigations such as anamnesis and drinking/voiding chart in children and adolescents, and "four observation test" in infants. Ultrasound and uroflowmetry are also useful tools. Invasive investigations include mainly voiding cystourethrography and urodynamics, ideally combined in video urodynamic studies. The management of urinary and intestinal elimination disorders is based on the prevention of
infections, the suppression of the post voiding residual urine and the treatment of an associated
constipation. If surgical treatment of VUR is needed, it must be associated to the management of
elimination disorders in the peri operative period. In many instances, an appropriate treatment of
elimination disorders often leads to the VUR resolution.