Is your child's urine leaking backwards? (Vesicoureteral Reflux) | Let's learn about Deflux treatment!

Does your little one get frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)? Sometimes they get a fever, your baby is uncomfortable, and you must be very scared. Many parents are worried about this problem. Most of the time, it is caused by a small defect in the urinary tract. Today, we are going to talk about such a condition and its simple treatment, which is not as big as surgery.

What is this urine going backwards? (Vesicoureteral Reflux - VUR)

Simply put, urine is produced in our body's two kidneys. From there, urine travels to the bladder, the sac where urine collects, through two tubes. We call these tubes ``(Ureters)``. Normally, urine travels down these tubes, that is, to the bladder. It cannot go back up, to the kidneys. The reason for this is that the place where these tubes connect to the bladder acts like a one-way valve.

But in some children, this `valve` does not work properly. Then, the urine that collects in the bladder moves back up towards the kidneys. This is what we medically call `Vesicoureteral Reflux` or `(VUR)`.

Imagine, there can be bacteria in the urine in the bladder. What happens if they go back to the kidneys? The kidneys can become infected. When these infections occur frequently, over time, the kidneys can become damaged, that is, they can even become scarred. That is why it is very important to pay attention to this condition.

So what is this treatment called Deflux?

Most of the time, this `VUR` condition gets better on its own as children grow older. But until then, it is necessary to stop the frequent infections. That is why a treatment called `Deflux` is used.

`Deflux` is a specially formulated gel. It is made from two ingredients that are similar to those naturally found in our bodies.

• Dextranomer: These are made up of sugar molecules. They are also used in medicines and wound cleansing products.
• Hyaluronic acid gel: This is also something that is naturally produced in our body. It is also widely used in beauty products.

Because this gel is compatible with the body, the risk of side effects is very low. What the doctor does is inject a little of this gel into the area where the malfunctioning `valve` is. Then, a small bulge forms there and starts to act like a new `valve`. This does not prevent urine from coming down, but it stops it from going back up completely.

Over time, this gel is gradually absorbed and absorbed by our body's own cells, filling the area with tissue. However, this does not affect the success of the treatment.

Deflux treatment procedure and preparation

This treatment is a very simple and quick procedure. It usually takes less than 30 minutes. Since it is an outpatient procedure, there is no need to stay in the hospital.

What are the benefits and risks of Deflux treatment?

As with any medical treatment, there are benefits and minor risks, and it's important to be aware of them.

Benefits

• Quick recovery: The child can return to normal activities within a day or two. There is no need to rest for weeks, as with major surgery.
• Fewer complications: Since there is no large incision, the risk of infections and excessive pain is much lower.
• Good for the body: `Deflux` gel is made from ingredients that are compatible with the body, so adverse reactions rarely occur.

Risks

The success rate of this treatment is between 70% and 93%. That means it is successful most of the time. But there are some things that can happen.

• Even with treatment, VUR and urinary tract infections may persist.
• There is very little chance of blockage in the urethra.
• There may be minor damage to the bladder.
• For some children, one application of the gel may not be enough. If that happens, you may need to do it a second time.

Things to take care of the child after treatment

Your child may experience some discomfort for the first day or two after treatment. This is normal and should not be alarmed.

• You can say that you feel a slight burning or pain when you urinate.
• You may be afraid to urinate, straining and not being able to do it.
• Urine may turn pink.
• You may be unable to hold your urine, or you may be bedridden.

If these things last more than two days, it's a good idea to call the doctor. Also, make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids. The more urine they produce, the faster they will heal.

When to see a doctor immediately

If your child has any of the symptoms below, call your treating doctor immediately.

If your child has VUR, it's natural to be concerned. But now there are simple, safe treatments like Deflux. This may not be right for every child. So, talk to your doctor about the options available to your child, the pros and cons, and make the best decision.