The bladder is completely outside in the newborn. The penis is short, wide and curved upwards. In girls, the labia do not join in the midline, but are separated on both sides of the urethra.
What is the cause of bladder exstrophy?
It is a developmental defect of the bladder and abdominal wall. It occurs due to the congenital inability of the abdominal wall under the umbilical cord to close.
What is the treatment for bladder exstrophy?
It is surgery. The aim of treatment is to close the bladder, repair the abdominal wall, reconstruct the genitals and provide urinary continence.
