Posterior urethral valve. A review of 120 cases

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Nephrology
• Medical History

Background:

• Posterior urethral valve (PUV) is a congenital obstruction in the urethra.
• Historically, PUV management in infants and children had high mortality rates.
• Significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment have been made over time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the outcomes of infants and children treated for posterior urethral valve.
• To assess the impact of diagnostic and management advances on mortality.
• To evaluate the long-term prognosis for survivors of posterior urethral valve.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 120 patients with posterior urethral valve.
• Data collected from Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town (1961-1982).
• Analysis of changes in mortality rates before and after 1977.

Main Results:

• Early mortality for PUV decreased dramatically from over 40% before 1977 to zero after.
• Zero early deaths were recorded in the later period of the study.
• Long-term follow-up indicates a substantial need for renal transplantation in adulthood.

Conclusions:

• Modern diagnostic and management strategies have eradicated early mortality from posterior urethral valve.
• Survivors of posterior urethral valve face a high risk of developing end-stage renal disease requiring transplantation.
• Long-term renal surveillance and management are crucial for PUV patients.