A vesicostomy is an opening created by the doctor between the abdominal wall and the bladder that helps prevent damage to the kidneys. This procedure is done in the operating room. The opening looks like a small slit surrounded by pink tissue. Urine drains constantly from this opening, and the child will need to wear a diaper, pull-ups or an incontinence pad, such as Poise pads. A vesicostomy is a temporary treatment.
This procedure is a necessary step for some children to help prevent urinary tract infections or kidney damage. Although most children who need a vesicostomy are young (under 5 years old), this procedure sometimes also helps older children or teenagers temporarily.