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Retrograde ureteroplasty using balloon dilatation in children with pelviureteric obstruction

N V Doraiswamy1

  • 1Paediatric Surgical Center, Ibn Sina Hospital, Kuwait.

Insights

Balloon dilatation offers a simple, effective treatment for pediatric pelviureteric junction obstruction (PUJ), with short hospital stays and improved drainage. This minimally invasive approach shows promising long-term results for children with PUJ obstruction.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Urology
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

  • Pelviureteric junction obstruction (PUJ) is a common cause of hydronephrosis in children.
  • Traditional surgical interventions can be invasive and require prolonged hospitalization.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of balloon dilatation for treating congenital and acquired pelviureteric junction obstruction (PUJ) in children.
  • To assess the outcomes of retrograde ureteroplasty using balloon dilatation without stenting.

Main Methods:

  • Eleven children (12 renal units) with PUJ obstruction underwent balloon dilatation using a Fogarty/Gruntzig catheter via cystoscope.
  • No stents were used post-procedure.
  • Follow-up extended up to 4.5 years.

Main Results:

  • Improved drainage and renal function were observed in all treated renal units.
  • Uncomplicated cases had a 1-day hospitalization period.
  • One case of acute obstruction in a solitary kidney required temporary percutaneous nephrostomy.
  • Macroscopic hematuria occurred in one case, necessitating a 3-day hospital stay.

Conclusions:

  • Retrograde ureteroplasty with balloon dilatation is a simple and effective minimally invasive treatment for pediatric PUJ obstruction, particularly for lower pelvic obstructions.
  • The procedure is associated with short hospital stays and positive long-term outcomes regarding drainage and function.

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