Deflux is an injectable gel used to treat vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), a condition typically found in infants and young children. It’s placed right where the ureter (the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder) meets the bladder.
The gel helps stop urine from flowing back into the ureters and kidneys. Over time, the body forms new tissue around the gel, which helps make the results long-lasting.
Deflux is made of two safe, sugar-based materials:
Hyaluronic acid (HA): Breaks down naturally and is replaced with your child’s own tissue.
Dextranomer: Provides long-term stability of the treatment.
The hyaluronic acid used is called NASHA® (Non-Animal Stabilized Hyaluronic Acid). It’s been used safely in medicine for more than 20 years.
How the Procedure Works
Deflux is given through a cystoscope, a thin tube with a camera that lets the doctor place the injection precisely. Your child is typically under general anesthesia, and the entire procedure usually takes about 15 minutes. Most children can go back to normal activities the next day.
Deflux is most often recommended for children with VUR grades 2–4. (The grading scale for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) ranges from Grade 1 to Grade 5, based on how far urine flows backward from the bladder toward the kidneys and the degree of kidney dilation.)
The Safety of Deflux
Deflux has been used safely for over two decades, with more than 500,000 procedures performed worldwide. Side effects are uncommon, but can include:
Ureteral dilation: Usually resolves on its own without treatment.
How Effective is Deflux?
Deflux has a strong track record of success. Research shows that up to 93% of children with VUR grades 2–4 improve after just one injection. If reflux isn’t completely resolved, a second injection or surgery can still be effective. Long-term studies have shown:
93% of children remained free of UTIs within 19 months after one injection.
97% had no long-term safety issues in 15 to 25-year follow-up studies.
What To Expect After Treatment
Most children feel fine after Deflux and don’t experience any pain. Occasionally, there may be mild stinging when urinating. Call your doctor if your child:
Has trouble urinating
Develops stomach or back pain
Runs a fever after the procedure
Choosing the Right Treatment
Your child’s follow-up plan will be tailored based on their response. Treatment for VUR can include:
Antibiotics: Daily medication with regular X-rays to monitor.
Deflux injection: Minimally invasive, with a quick recovery and high success rates.
Surgery: Typically for more severe cases or if other treatments don’t work.
Every family’s decision is different. Some may struggle with the commitment to daily antibiotics, while others may consider surgery if their child has severe reflux or other medical conditions.
Deflux offers many families a safe, effective, and less invasive option for treating VUR.
