Dr. Sponseller recently travelled with a multidisciplinary team to Uganda to perform several life-changing surgeries for children with bladder exstrophy. He also presented several lectures to educate local clinicians on surgical techniques. A record number of individuals were treated during this year’s trip.
Bladder Exstrophy
Bladder exstrophy is a rare congenital (present at birth) condition in which the bladder is turned inside out and exposed on the outside of the body. In this condition, the pelvic bones are also widely separated and the pubic bones are turned outward.
Bladder exstrophy can occur in both males and females, and the severity of the condition can vary from person to person. In some cases, the condition may only affect the bladder, while in others it can also affect the genitalia and the bowel.
Orthopedic management of bladder exstrophy involves a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including orthopedic surgeons, urologists, physical therapists, and rehabilitation specialists, who work together to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for each patient.
