Massive hydronephrosis associated with traumatic rupture

Twelve cases of traumatic rupture of a massive hydronephrosis are reported. The key points in the diagnosis are: injury around the loin, peritonitis, a fall of pH in the abdominal paracentesis fluid, a rise of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and structural abnormality of the affected renal pelvis seen on ultrasonography. The treatment differed according to the disease causing the hydronephrosis before the injury. All patients were treated surgically with a satisfactory overall cure rate. Follow-up of 12 years has not revealed any significant sequelae.