Johns Hopkins University Program

Pediatric Urology Program Overview

The Pediatric Urology program at Johns Hopkins Children's Center is recognized as one of the leading centers in the nation for the management of complex pediatric urological conditions. The program specializes in both primary and reoperative surgeries, particularly for bladder exstrophy, a severe congenital defect. The staff is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care, leveraging advanced technology and collaborative teams to diagnose and treat a variety of childhood urological issues.

Johns Hopkins Children's Center is nationally ranked in Pediatric Urology, as evidenced by the 2024–2025 U.S. News & World Report rankings, which positions the center as the number one children's hospital in Maryland. It is worth noting that all specialties at the Children's Center are nationally recognized, ensuring high standards of care.

Conditions Treated

The Pediatric Urology program addresses numerous conditions affecting children, including but not limited to:

• Bedwetting (enuresis)
• Bladder exstrophy
• Cloacal exstrophy
• Epispadias
• Hypospadias
• Kidney stones
• Undescended testicles
• Ureteropelvic junction obstruction
• Vesicoureteral reflux

The program prides itself on its multidisciplinary approach, with professionals from pediatrics, urology, radiology, and other specialties collaborating to deliver optimal treatment options for each child.

Research and Innovation

Ongoing research within the Pediatric Urology division seeks to advance treatment methodologies and outcomes. A notable study published discusses modern treatment comparisons for conditions like cloacal exstrophy, bridging gaps in procedural outcomes and survey practices.

The Pediatric Voiding Improvement Program (VIP) showcases a commitment to evidence-based practice by utilizing tailored treatment plans for issues such as urinary incontinence and recurrent urinary tract infections, emphasizing teamwork among pediatric urologists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and nurses.

Training Opportunities

The Pediatric Urology Fellowship at Johns Hopkins is designed to cultivate the next generation of leaders in pediatric urology. Fellows benefit from hands-on experience in a robust surgical environment, alongside exposure to cutting-edge treatment strategies, including minimally invasive procedures.

The program emphasizes the importance of research engagement, providing fellows the opportunity to contribute to ongoing studies and clinical trials, essential for shaping future care approaches.

Robotic and Laparoscopic Surgery

The Robotic Pediatric Urology Program is at the forefront of applying minimally invasive surgery techniques. This program is one of only a few nationwide offering advanced single-port robotic surgery for pediatric urological conditions. Common procedures include:

• Robotic pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic junction obstruction
• Robotic ureteral reimplant for vesicoureteral reflux
• Robotic laparoscopic nephrectomy for kidney removal
• Robotic orchidopexy for undescended testicles

These minimally invasive techniques have been shown to provide patients with quicker recovery times and less postoperative pain compared to traditional methods.

Visa Support

The Pediatric Urology program at Johns Hopkins actively supports international applicants by offering sponsorship for J-1 and H-1B visas. This ensures qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds can participate in the residency or fellowship programs without bureaucratic hindrances.

Competitiveness

The Pediatric Urology fellowship is highly competitive, attracting candidates from various medical backgrounds, including both U.S. graduates and international medical graduates (IMGs). The program seeks individuals with a robust interest in pediatric care, evidenced academic achievements, and the commitment to addressing complex urological conditions.

Application Requirements

Prospective fellows should note there are specific application criteria that include recent graduation from medical school, a strong academic record, and less than two failed attempts on Step examinations. Meeting these standards is essential for consideration into this prestigious program.