Ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children

What is a ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in a child?

In a child with ureteropelvic junction (UPJO) obstruction, part of a kidney is blocked. This blockage typically occurs at the renal pelvis, which is where the kidney attaches to one of the ureters (tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder). Because of this blockage, urine builds up and can damage the kidney.

What are the signs and symptoms of a ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children?

• Abdominal mass (seen via ultrasound imaging)

• Blood in the urine

• Fever

• Kidney stones

• Pain in the upper abdomen or back that worsens with fluid intake

• Poor growth (in infants under one year)

• Urinary tract infection (UTI)

• Vomiting

What are the causes of ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children?

Most of the time, UPJO obstruction is congenital, meaning that it is present at birth. About one in 1,500 children are born with this condition. The problem occurs during fetal development, and the cause is unknown.

How is a ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) in children treated?

• Pediatric robotic assisted laparoscopic pyeloplasty