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Deflux Implant Procedure

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.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE

  • no peeing in 8 to 10 hours 
  • severe pain in the belly 
  • fever higher than 101° F ​
  • bladder spasms that become worse and do not decrease within 24 hours

RISKS

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®.

AFTER DEFLUX®

The urethra and bladder may be irritated for 24 to 48 hours. As a result your child may:

  • hesitate to pee or pee often 
  • feel stinging or soreness when trying to pee 
  • Have pink-tinged urine 
  • Not be able to hold the urine and/or wet the bed for a few days 
  • 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.

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