The aim of this study is to report the experience of a single injection of Dextranomer/hyaluronic acid copolymer (Deflux) and assess its effectiveness in reducing the incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in children with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).

The medical records of 31 patients with VUR, who were presented between 2019 and 2023, were retrospectively reviewed. Data collected included: demographics, the number of preoperative and postoperative UTIs, a radiological grade of VUR on a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) 12 months after the procedure. Patients continued on oral antibiotics until urine culture was negative or no reflux was demonstrated on VCUG.

The mean age of 31 patients was 24.8 months, and 58% were girls. 17 patients have bilateral VUR. Of the 48 ureters treated, 6 had Grade II, 23 Grade III, 13 Grade IV, and 6 Grade V. The overall radiological success rate of the procedure was 77% after the single injection. The success rate per grade was: 83% for Grade II, 87% for Grade III, 69% for Grade IV, and 50% for Grade V. The mean follow-up was 3.23±1.6 years. The overall clinical success rate of the procedure was 90%. Three (9.7%) patients had febrile UTIs after the procedure, compared to 21(68%) before the procedure.

The Deflux injection could reduce the incidence of febrile urinary tract infections in children with vesicoureteral reflux. The Deflux injection affords a choice of bridge therapy between conservative and surgical treatment for vesicoureteral reflux.