Management of ureteropelvic junction obstruction in adults

Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) is characterized by impaired flow of urine from the renal pelvis to the ureter. Untreated disease can result in renal impairment making effective management crucial. A combination of CT imaging and diuretic renography is typically used for diagnosis. CT is the investigation of choice for obtaining anatomical information about UPJO and can help to identify potential causes. Diuretic renography is best for providing functional information about UPJO. A variety of open and minimally invasive surgical techniques are available for treatment of UPJO. Traditionally open pyeloplasty has been the standard of care but minimally invasive surgical techniques have become increasingly popular. Endopyelotomy has a lower success rate than other modalities (42-90% depending on the approach), but is associated with reduced pain and shorter convalescence. Laparoscopic pyeloplasty and robot-assisted pyeloplasty have similar success rates to open pyeloplasty (>90%), with the additional advantages of significantly reduced morbidity and shorter convalescence. More long-term outcome data for minimally invasive surgical techniques are awaited.