A UVJ obstruction in an infant usually resolves on its own.
If a serious obstruction, the condition can usually be effectively treated with surgery.
This article will explain how a utererovesical junction obstruction affects the urinary tract.
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This can cause the ureter and kidney to dilate (widen) and swell.
The swelling of the ureter is calledhydroureter, while the swelling of the kidney is referred to ashydronephrosis.
This non-invasive imaging study can visualize fetal organs using reflected sound waves.
Onultrasound, the ureter and/or kidney of the fetus will show visible signs of hydroureter and hydronephrosis.
With congenital UVJ obstruction, the condition will usually be unilateral (one-sided), favoring the left side.
However, up to 25% of cases will be bilateral (two-sided).
Additional tests may be performed after delivery to evaluate the severity of the obstruction and direct the treatment plan.
Any defect will usually correct itself as the urinary tract develops and matures.
The child may also be placed onantibioticsto help prevent UTIs.
Surgery
If kidney function severely declines, medical intervention may needed.
This typically involves a surgery calledureteral reimplantation.
Ureteral reimplantation can be performed asopen,laparoscopic, orrobotic surgery.
The recognition of the signs of UVJ obstruction can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, improving outcomes.
The majority of cases are congenital, with most children outgrowing the condition by the time they are toddlers.
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