Bladder Exstrophy in Children: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Treatment from Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, Pediatric Urologist

Bladder exstrophy is a rare and complex congenital condition in which a child is born with an exposed urinary bladder outside their body. This condition is often identified at birth and presents as a visible pink mass in the lower abdomen, along with continuous urinary leakage. Immediate surgical intervention is required to restore normal urinary function and to address potential genital and structural abnormalities associated with the condition.

If your child has been diagnosed with bladder exstrophy, seeking expert care from a Pediatric Urologist like Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran is essential for effective treatment and long-term health outcomes.

What Is Bladder Exstrophy?

Bladder exstrophy occurs when the lower abdominal wall fails to develop properly during pregnancy, causing the urinary bladder to remain exposed outside the body. This condition is typically visible at birth, and parents may notice the distinctive pink mass accompanied by a continuous leak of urine. In addition to bladder exposure, bladder exstrophy is often linked to abnormalities in genital development and, in some cases, groin swelling due to a hernia.

Key Features of Bladder Exstrophy

Visible pink mass in the lower abdomen (exposed bladder).
Continuous urine leakage from the exposed bladder.
Abnormal genitalia development.
Possible groin swelling or hernia.

Causes of Bladder Exstrophy

Bladder exstrophy results from incomplete development of the lower abdominal wall during fetal growth. This lack of proper development leads to the urinary bladder being exposed outside the body. Additionally, bladder exstrophy can be associated with other abnormalities in the urinary and genital systems, requiring comprehensive care from a Pediatric Urologist for proper diagnosis and management.

Symptoms of Bladder Exstrophy

The primary signs of bladder exstrophy include:

Visible pink mass in the lower abdomen.
Continuous urinary leakage from the exposed bladder.
Abnormal genital appearance.
Possible groin swelling, which could indicate hernia.

If you notice any of these signs in your newborn, it’s crucial to consult a Pediatric Urologist immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and Monitoring

Bladder exstrophy is typically diagnosed at birth based on its unique appearance. After diagnosis, your pediatric urologist will conduct additional tests and imaging studies to assess the extent of the condition and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Bladder Exstrophy

Prompt surgical correction is essential to address the exposed bladder and related structural issues. The treatment approach often involves:

Bladder Closure Surgery

The exposed bladder and urinary tube (urethra) are surgically closed to restore normal urinary function.

Genital Reconstruction

In cases of abnormal genital development, genital reconstruction may be performed during or after bladder closure surgery.

Bladder Augmentation

In some cases, the bladder’s capacity may be enhanced using tissue from the intestine to improve urinary function.

Hip Bone Correction

Surgical correction may also be required to address abnormalities in the pelvic bones that can accompany bladder exstrophy.

Why Specialized Care Is Critical

Bladder exstrophy is a highly complex condition that requires care from an experienced Pediatric Urologist. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial to ensuring the best possible outcomes for your child, including normal urinary function and addressing associated genital and structural abnormalities.

If your child has been diagnosed with bladder exstrophy or if you suspect any related issues, seeking expert care from Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran, Pediatric Urologist, will provide the specialized care needed to manage this condition effectively.

📞 Book an Appointment with Dr. Prabhu Karunakaran Today for Expert Guidance and Treatment!