Bladder Exstrophy

What is bladder exstrophy?

Bladder exstrophy is a rare, complex condition where the bladder and other parts of the urinary tract do not form correctly. Babies with bladder exstrophy are born with a bladder outside of the body, may have differently shaped genitals and widely spaced pelvic bones.
Bladder exstrophy is sometimes diagnosed in an ultrasound or fetal MRI before a baby is born, but it may not be diagnosed until birth.

What are the signs and symptoms of bladder exstrophy?

The main sign of bladder exstrophy in newborns is an exposed bladder at birth. Other symptoms of bladder exstrophy in children can range from child to child. These symptoms can include:

• Exposed bladder that may be flat or small
• Urethra that is not fully formed, with the opening of the urethra in an unusual location.
• Genitals that are not formed correctly
• Widely spaced pelvic bones
• A belly button that is lower than normal

What causes bladder exstrophy?

Experts are not certain what causes bladder exstrophy in some children. They think that the environment or genetics may play a role.

How is bladder exstrophy treated?

Children born with bladder exstrophy will need surgery shortly after birth to repair the condition. The surgery may be done in one operation, or in a series of three surgeries over time. The type of surgery your baby will need depends on their specific condition. Your care team at Arkansas Children's is experienced in treating bladder exstrophy in children and will work with you to develop the best treatment plan for your child's specific needs.