Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 11, 2025

Assessing Urinary Tract Junction Obstruction Defects by Methylene Blue Dye Injection
Published on: October 12, 2017
Persistent Anhydramnios and Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction in a Patient With a Vesicoamniotic Shunt
Arthi Hannallah1, Zoë Baker1, Andy Y Chang1
1Division of Urology, Children's Hospital Los Angeles/University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA.
Persistent anhydramnios in a fetus, even after shunt placement, can indicate underlying issues. This case highlights the importance of investigating further for conditions like posterior urethral valves and shunt migration.
Area of Science:
- Fetal Medicine
- Pediatric Urology
- Neonatal Surgery
Background:
- Persistent anhydramnios (low amniotic fluid) post-vesicoamniotic shunt is rare.
- Shunts are used to treat fetal urinary tract obstruction.
Observation:
- A male fetus at 32 weeks presented with hydroureteronephrosis, a distended bladder, and anhydramnios.
- An amniotic fluid shunt was placed, but anhydramnios persisted.
Findings:
- Postnatal diagnosis revealed a migrated shunt, severe left vesicoureteral reflux, and posterior urethral valves.
- The infant underwent successful posterior urethral valve ablation and shunt removal.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for thorough postnatal investigation when anhydramnios persists after fetal shunting.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of posterior urethral valves and shunt complications are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Successful management led to a 2-year-old child with no urinary tract infections or renal decline.
Related Concept Videos
Mitral Valve Prolapse III: Nursing Management
Disorders of the Urinary System
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common urinary system disorders. They are caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and can spread to the bladder resulting in cystitis. Pyelonephritis is the result of a UTI that has ascended to the level of the...
Acute Kidney Injury II: Pathophysiology
Urinary Tract Calculi II: Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations
Anatomy of the Genitourinary System II: Bladder and Urethra
Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction

