Retrograde ureteroplasty using balloon dilatation in children with pelviureteric obstruction

Congenital and acquired pelviureteric junction obstruction (PUJ) were treated with balloon dilatation, using a Fogarty/Gruntzig catheter introduced through the cystoscope in 11 children (12 renal units). Stents were not used, and the hospitalization period was only 1 day for uncomplicated cases. Follow-up (maximum period, 4 1/2 years) has shown better drainage and function for all. In one child, who had solitary left kidney, acute obstruction developed; the patient underwent temporary percutaneous nephrostomy. Macroscopic hematuria was noted in one case, resulting in a 3-day hospital stay. Technical problems, advantages, and disadvantages are discussed. Retrograde ureteroplasty using balloon dilatation is a simple and effective procedure for children in whom the obstructed PUJ is in lower part of the pelvis.