Bladder Exstrophy

What is bladder exstrophy?

Bladder exstrophy is characterized by an open, inside-out bladder where the inner surface is exposed to the amniotic fluid. The incidence is rare, occurring 3.3 to five out of 100,000 live births. Bladder extrophy is more common in males than females and in first-born children. The recurrence risk in a family is about one in 100.

How is this condition managed during pregnancy?

During the pregnancy, there will be close ultrasound follow-up. Consultations before birth will be scheduled with the pediatric urology and neonatology to discuss prognosis and management after birth. Surgical goals include attaining normal kidney function, providing appropriate bladder capacity and function, and repair of external genitalia.