Research and Quality Improvement

Connecticut Children’s pediatric urology physicians and researchers are actively involved in clinical and translational research related to outcomes and treatment of urologic conditions including hydronephrosis, solitary kidney, ureteropelvic junction obstruction, hypospadias, and conditions which affect bladder function such as neurogenic bladder and spina bifida. Investigators present numerous study abstracts at international and national meetings each year and engage in scientific dialog as panel members, presenters and moderators.

In addition, the Division is committed to maintaining optimal outcomes for all patients through continued quality improvement. In partnership with the Connecticut Children’s Practice Quality Improvement Program, our urologists have spearheaded numerous projects to improve and track outcomes for our patients in the hospital.
 

Quality Improvement

Current Quality Improvement Projects:

  • Automated indwelling ureteral stent tracking
  • Non-narcotic pathway for urology patients
  • Standardized discharge for urologic surgery
  • Standardized pathways for common urologic conditions
     

Research Information

External Resources

Patients who are interested in volunteering to participate in research can learn more by viewing informational videos, brochure, list of questions to ask researchers, and additional resources related to research participation that have been created by the Office for Human Research Protections (OHRP), a federal government agency:

Researchers

Dr. Rowe’s clinical and translational research is focused on understanding and optimizing outcomes for patients after urologic reconstructive surgery. Current Research Projects

Dr. Dudley’s clinical research interests include neurogenic bladder, differences and disorders of sexual differentiation, and patient safety and quality.

Current Research Projects:

  • Evaluation of renal growth in solitary kidneys
  • Interventions for neuropathic bladder and system utilization in children with spina bifida
  • Society for Fetal Urology Hydronephrosis Registry Site

Kathy’s research interests include health services research, vesicoureteral reflux, posterior urethral valves, and hydronephrosis.

Current Research Projects:

  • Society for Fetal Urology Hydronephrosis Registry Site
  • Parental Perception of Bladder Spasms and Hematuria after Surgery for Vesicoureteral Reflux
  • Growth factors in urethral repair and regeneration
  • ResearchGate