At 2 years old, Isaac started to have problems going to the toilet. He suffered from lower abdominal pain and urine infections. Having been referred to a pediatric urologist, examinations revealed that Isaac was suffering from posterior urethral valves (PUV), a condition which is present from birth and causes an obstruction which blocks urine flow.

Isaac underwent surgery to remove the obstruction, and was closely monitored every six months. By late 2014, ultrasounds showed that his bladder and kidneys had started to deteriorate, and six months later Isaac was suffering from incontinence. Further investigations showed that his bladder muscles had thickened even further, and in autumn 2015, the pediatric urologist recommended proceeding with surgery; Mitrofanoff procedure with augmentation of the bladder.The aim of the surgery would be to relieve bladder pressure and eventually enable him to go to the toilet successfully.

Isaac’s parents were concerned. The Mitrofanoff procedure is complex surgery, and it would mean that Isaac would have to learn how to catheterize. It was at this point that his parents decided to take advantage of the Best Doctors benefit that was available to them, to find out the full implications of the surgery they were being recommended.

The reassurance that we have gained from the experience is second to none.

Isaac’s parents were full of questions. Would he end up with a catheter for life? What are the risks and benefits of surgery? Are there any other long term alternatives? The Best Doctors medical team worked with the family to collect all of Isaac’s medical records and pulled together a clinical summary which was shared with a world class expert in pediatric urology.

Having reviewed the case history, the Best Doctors expert prepared a very thorough report about Isaac’s condition. He explained that medical treatment could be tried to help improve urination. He also recommended medications to relax the bladder and long-term antibiotics to help prevent any infections. The report also detailed a number of further tests that Isaac could undergo, and went on to explain more about the surgery that could be considered as well. Importantly for Isaac’s family, the Best Doctors expert made a number of suggestions as to how the surgery could be modified according to Isaac’s specific case in order to ensure the best result.

Isaac’s parents carefully reviewed the Best Doctors report and after numerous discussions decided to go ahead with the surgery. Prior to surgery they shared the Best Doctors expert report with the treating physicians who were able to make the modifications suggested in the report.





The surgery exceeded expectations and there were no complications post operation. His need to urinate frequently has reduced considerably and the surgeons are very pleased with his progress. He’s now back at school and his parents are over the moon to see their happy and active little boy on the road to recovery.

Back to school and making great progress