Diagnosis and treatment of urethral prolapse in children: experience with 34 cases.

OBJECTIVES: To retrospectively review 34 cases of urethral prolapse at an inner-city institution with an emphasis on diagnosis and treatment in the pediatric population.

METHODS: We performed a retrospective chart review of 34 patients of all age groups with urethral prolapse treated at our institution and reviewed the relevant published data.

RESULTS: A total of 34 patients with urethral prolapse were treated at our institution during a 23-year period. The diagnosis was made mainly by physical examination. The findings from the history, physical examination, and pertinent laboratory investigations were reviewed. Most patients were treated successfully with excision of the prolapsed mucosa circumferentially over a Foley catheter and discharged home within 24 hours of the operation. No major complications occurred.

CONCLUSIONS: Urethral prolapse primarily affects premenarchal black girls and should be treated promptly with excision of the prolapsed mucosa and early hospital discharge.