Is there a role for balloon dilatation of pelvi-ureteric obstruction in children?

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 1, 2026

An Immature Murine Model of Reversible Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction
06:37

An Immature Murine Model of Reversible Unilateral Ureteral Obstruction

Published on: April 4, 2025

R K Mackenzie1, G G Youngson, J K Hussey

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Royal Aberdeen Children's Hospital, , Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, Aberdeen, Scotland.

Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|May 31, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Balloon dilatation with double J stenting is effective for pediatric pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction, showing improved renal function and reduced pelvis size. This minimally invasive approach offers a viable management option for children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Urology
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery
  • Renal Physiology

Background:

  • Pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction is a common congenital anomaly in children.
  • Traditional surgical management, such as pyeloplasty, can be invasive.
  • Exploring less invasive alternatives is crucial for pediatric patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of balloon dilatation combined with double J stenting for treating pediatric PUJ obstruction.
  • To assess the impact on renal function and pelvic dimensions.
  • To determine the safety and morbidity associated with this procedure.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of 10 pediatric patients undergoing balloon dilatation for PUJ obstruction over 4 years.
  • Data collected included demographics, clinical presentation, procedural details, and pre/postoperative renal function and pelvic diameter.
  • MAG III isotope scanning and antero-posterior (AP) renal pelvis diameter measurements were used for assessment.

Main Results:

  • Initial success in 8 of 10 cases, with significant improvement in renal excretion times and reduction in AP pelvic diameter.
  • Median follow-up was 34 months, with minimal in-hospital stay (2 days).
  • Two immediate failures occurred due to extrinsic compression from aberrant renal vessels; one patient deteriorated later.

Conclusions:

  • Balloon dilatation with double J stenting is a viable and effective treatment for pediatric PUJ obstruction.
  • The procedure demonstrates minimal morbidity when performed by experienced surgeons.
  • It offers a promising alternative to open pyeloplasty in select pediatric cases.
Abstract

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