PULVI-URETERIC JUNCTION (PUJ) OBSTRUCTION

This is an obstruction at the junction of the pelvis of the kidney where the urine starts to collect, with the ureter, down which the urine drains to the bladder.

How Is This Diagnosed?

This condition is often detected by antenatal ultrasound scanning, but may present at any age. Older children may have intermittent abdominal pain, or urinary tract infections. It usually affects only one of the kidneys, but sometimes both kidneys may be affected.

Ultrasound scanning, and often other radiological investigations are necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Is An Operation Necessary?

If the obstruction is intermittent, or not complete, then an operation may not be necessary. If however the function of the kidney is being affected, or if there is associated pain or infection, then an operation to relieve the obstruction will be necessary.

If an operation is needed, then the child will be admitted to hospital either the night before, or on the morning of the day of the operation.

After Surgery

The child stays in hospital until feeding/eating is established, is comfortable, and is fully mobile. A drainage tube or stent, and a catheter will be in place for up to 7 days, and the tube or stent will be clamped for some hours prior to removal. Preventative antibiotics will be given for up to 3 months.

Follow Up

The child will be followed up in the clinic on a regular basis for over 12 months, and further check-up ultrasound scans will be performed.

Risks Or Complications

Complications which may occur following surgery include wound infection, urinary tract infection, recurrence of the obstruction, and leakage of urine from the site of operation.

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