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High-Pressure Balloon Dilatation in Infants with Primary Obstructive Megaureter: A Single-Center Case Series
Anna Suihko1, Liisi Ripatti1, Niklas Pakkasjärvi2
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Turku University Hospital, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
Urology Research & Practice
|June 18, 2025
Summary
High-pressure balloon dilatation (HPBD) for primary obstructive megaureter (POM) in infants showed limited efficacy. Many infants required further open surgery, indicating HPBD is not a universally effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Primary obstructive megaureter (POM) is a congenital condition affecting the urinary tract in infants.
- Effective treatment options for POM are crucial to prevent renal damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of high-pressure balloon dilatation (HPBD) as a treatment for primary obstructive megaureter (POM) in infants.
- To assess complications and subsequent surgical needs following HPBD for POM.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 5 infants with symptomatic or progressive POM treated with HPBD.
- Analysis of ureteral and pelvic diameters, Society for Fetal Urology grading, renal function, and complications.
Main Results:
- No significant changes in ureteral diameter, pelvic diameter, parenchymal thickness, or differential renal function post-HPBD.
- Three patients showed improved obstructive renogram findings.
- Two infants (<6 months) required open ureteral reimplantation; 40% overall needed further surgery.
Conclusions:
- HPBD is a minimally invasive option for POM but has variable effectiveness.
- High complication rates and a significant need for subsequent open surgery were observed.
- HPBD may not be a definitive solution for all infants with POM.
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