Pelvic Ureteric Junction (PUJ) Obstruction in Children
Introduction
Pelvi-ureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction is when urine flow from the kidney to the ureter is blocked or narrowed. This causes swelling of the kidney (hydronephrosis) and can damage kidney function if untreated.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
- Antenatal ultrasound showing hydronephrosis
- Flank or abdominal pain
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Sometimes found incidentally
Diagnosis: ultrasound, MAG-3 renal scan, MRI urogram.
Treatment
The main treatment is surgery to relieve the obstruction and restore urine flow (pyeloplasty).
How Dr. Daniel Manages PUJ Obstruction
Provides antenatal counseling if detected before birth. Monitors kidney function with scans; not all cases need immediate surgery.
Performs laparoscopic pyeloplasty whenever suitable, giving smaller scars, less pain, faster recovery. Open surgery is performed if laparoscopy is not possible. Parents guided step by step.
Recovery & Follow-up
Hospital stays: 3–5 days. A temporary stent may be placed and removed later. Long-term ultrasound follow-up ensures kidney function.




