Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
vesicostomy
Pronunciation: ves-i-kos-to-mee
A surgical procedure creating an opening between the bladder and skin for urinary drainage.
Full Definition
Vesicostomy is a surgical procedure that creates a temporary opening between the bladder and the skin surface, allowing urine to drain directly from the bladder. In pediatric urology, cutaneous vesicostomy is often performed as a temporizing measure in infants with severe neurogenic bladder, posterior urethral valves, or other conditions requiring bladder decompression. The procedure can protect the upper urinary tract while allowing time for growth and definitive reconstruction.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from cystostomy which typically refers to suprapubic tube placement rather than cutaneous stoma.
In Context
- "Cutaneous vesicostomy was performed to protect renal function in this infant with severe posterior urethral valves." — operative report
- "The vesicostomy site showed good healing without signs of stomal stenosis." — post-operative visit note
Also known as
cutaneous vesicostomy
bladder cutaneous diversion
Contrasted with
vesicostomy closure
Don't confuse with
cystostomy
nephrostomy