[Primary megaureter in the newborn period: making the case for a temporary splint-free cutaneous ureterostomy]. / Primärer Megaureter beim Neugeborenen ­ die passagere externe Harnableitung ­ ein Plädoyer.

The term "megaureter" is used to describe a markedly dilated ureter, irrespective of its underlying anatomic abnormality. Primary megaureters categorised as type I and II according to the Pfister-Hendren classification resolve spontaneously during the first years of life, whereas severely dilated type III megaureters have no potential to resolve on conservative management. Regarding this small group of very severely dilated type III megaureters, we recommend a two-step surgical approach: in a first step, we place a temporary splint-free ureterocutaneostomy for early disobstruction. In a second step, we perform the actual corrective surgery with closure of the incontinent urinary diversion when the patient is approximately one year old, a point in time when bladder function is more mature. With this strategy, ultrasound imaging provides all important information until the corrective surgery is performed. A voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) to rule out reflux and a MAG-3 diuretic renography can supplement the diagnostic work-up before the ureterocutaneostomy is closed.

The acute scrotum in childhood and adolescence.

BACKGROUND: The acute scrotum in childhood or adolescence is a medical emergency. Inadequate evaluation and delays in diagnosis and treatment can result in irreversible harm, up to and including loss of a testis. Various diseases can produce this clinical picture. The testis is ischemic in only about 20% of cases. METHODS: This review is based on a selective literature search, the existing clinical guideline, and the authors' experience. RESULTS: The clinical approach to the acute scrotum must begin with a standardized, rapidly performed diagnostic evaluation. Dopper ultrasonography currently plays a central role. Its main use is to demonstrate the central arterial blood supply and venous drainage of the testis. The resistance index of the testicular vessels should also be determined. CONCLUSION: Physical examination and properly performed Doppler ultrasonography enable adequate evaluation of the acute scrotum in childhood and adolescence. In the rare cases of diagnostic uncertainty, immediate surgical exposure of the testis remains the treatment of choice.