Overview
PUJ obstruction is a blockage at the point where the kidney connects to the ureter. This prevents urine from draining properly, causing it to back up and swell the kidney (hydronephrosis).
Symptoms
Many cases are detected before birth via ultrasound. Older children may experience flank pain, urinary tract infections, or blood in the urine.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is confirmed with ultrasound and a nuclear medicine scan (MAG3 scan) to assess kidney function and drainage.
Treatment
Pyeloplasty
The standard treatment is a surgery called pyeloplasty to remove the narrowed section and reconnect the ureter to the kidney. This is often done using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques.