Deflux® is a sterile, biodegradable gel used to treat vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Vesicoureteral reflux is the abnormal flow of urine from your bladder back up the tubes (ureters) from your kidneys. Normally, urine flows only down from your kidneys to your bladder.
The Deflux® implant is injected into the bladder wall where the ureter enters the bladder, forming a bulge at the opening. The bulge reduces the size of the opening, to prevent urine from flowing backwards into the ureter. The opening is still flexible so urine can flow into the bladder, as it should. Deflux® is gradually replaced by the body's own tissue, so the bulge remains.
Our doctors use a small camera called a cystoscope (a type of endoscope used to view the bladder) to properly place the gel. During the procedure your child will be under general anesthesia.
Most studies show a success rate of 70-80%. For those who fail, a second injection can be done. Surgery can also be done. Many children have success after one injection, but some may need more procedures.
In general, Deflux® has been used in thousands of children with minimal complications.
There is a small risk of infection and bleeding from the procedure. Although a rare event, the gel might block the ureter and cause the urine to back up into the kidney.
It is important to remember that Deflux® does not improve bladder and bowel habits. UTIs may still occur after successful treatment with Deflux®.
The urethra and bladder may be irritated for 24 to 48 hours. As a result your child may:
Bladder spasms can occur, caused by the stretching or probing of the bladder. Bladder spasms, like muscle spasms, can be uncomfortable. They may feel like a cramp or like an urge to pee, but then only a small dribble or no urine at all comes out. They come and go often, usually less than a minute, and should decrease within 24 hours.
These symptoms should be no worse than after a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) that is used to detect abnormalities in the bladder and check the function s of the urinary tract.
After surgery, your child may feel a little confused, sleepy or dizzy from the anesthesia. This will go away quickly. For the day of the procedure, encourage rest. The next day normal activities are fine.
Encourage plenty of fluids. Popsicles®, soup, and Jell-O® are great to stimulate urination. To prevent infections, your child will need to take antibiotics for about 3 months or until there is no reflux shown on x-ray testing.