How the Outcome of Infants with Low and Moderate Risks of Vesicoureteral Reflux Differs when They are Managed Conservatively or Operated?

Objectives:To compare the resolution of reflux after surgery and follow-up and to determine what the appropriate treatment is in patients with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) who were diagnosed less than 2 years of age.Materials and Methods:Data from 250 patients who were diagnosed with VUR below 2 years of age between 2000 and 2016 were examined retrospectively. Patients with low risk and moderate risks according to the EAU/ESPU guidelines were evaluated. Patients who underwent surgery and followed up were compared regarding the age at diagnosis, VCUG findings, gender, presence of scar in DMSA, BTI, postoperative UTI, follow-up period and resolution rates.Results:Of the patients, 207 patients underwent surgery while 43 did not. Mean age was 9.62 (0-24) months. Follow-up patients were followed up for an average of 55.4 months. Of the followed-up patients, 60.5% (26) had complete resolution of VUR at the average of 25.8 months (6-64). When we compared the data of surgically treated and followed-up patients, we detected that frequency of male gender, renal scar, high-grade reflux and moderate risk were significantly more, the resolution rate was higher and follow-up period was shorter in operated group.Conclusion:Spontaneous resolution rate of VUR less than 2 years of age is high and it is important to determine which patients should undergo early surgery in this patient group in terms of preventing complications. Surgical options with satisfactory success rates should be discussed with the family. Besides, the possible costs and comorbidities should also be regarded.