Long-term results of surgery for posterior urethral valves: a review

Although the techniques for valve resection have been refined and the short-term management of patients with posterior valves has improved remarkably, there is growing concern about long-term outcome. Prenatal diagnosis has added to the urgency of predicting long-term outcome. This paper reviews all the important long-term data available with the aim of providing a concise picture for the reader, vis-a-vis long-term renal function, the role of proximal diversion in long-term outcome, bladder function and incontinence, the place of renal transplantation, prenatal diagnosis, intervention and prediction of renal function and sexual function and fertility.