Bladder Exstrophy Care & Support Group

Fetal intervention

Antenatal (before birth) intervention, such as covering the exstrophy tissue or repairing the exstrophy itself in utero, is being considered. Investigational efforts in an animal model have proven the capability of taking a biopsy of the fetal bladder tissue, expanding this tissue in the laboratory and having it available for postnatal return to the newborn if deemed necessary.

Anatomical investigation

Detailed analysis of the soft tissue and bony anatomy of the pelvis through an MRI is a staple in the pre- and post-operative CPRE evaluation of children with bladder exstrophy. This analysis will help assess attempts to recreate normal pelvic anatomy, and correlate findings with clinical aspects of outcome, such as urinary continence.

Innovative surgical techniques

Based on the critical review of anatomical detail, new and more effective surgical techniques and approaches are being developed to improve outcomes.

Robotic surgery is one of these innovations - it allows specially-trained surgeons to use a high-tech robot to perform a number of complex and delicate operations through very small surgical openings; reducing pain, recovery time, hospital stays and scars. More about robotic surgery