The kidneys play a crucial role in filtering waste from the body and producing urine, which normally flows from the kidneys to the bladder through thin tubes called ureters. However, in some children, this one-way flow is disrupted when urine travels backward from the bladder toward the kidneys — a condition known as Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR).
VUR is relatively common, affecting approximately 10% of children. It may affect one ureter (unilateral) or both (bilateral), and while many children outgrow it with time, others — especially those with severe cases — may need medical or surgical intervention to prevent lasting kidney damage.
What Causes Vesicoureteral Reflux?
VUR can be primary or secondary:
- Primary VUR occurs due to a congenital defect in the flap valve located at the junction of the ureter and bladder. This valve normally prevents urine from flowing backward but may not function properly in some infants and children.
- Secondary VUR can result from urinary tract blockages, such as posterior urethral valves, or neurological issues like neurogenic bladder, which lead to abnormal bladder pressure and backward flow of urine.
Over time, this reflux can result in recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and renal scarring, potentially leading to long-term complications such as high blood pressure or chronic kidney disease.
Symptoms of VUR in Children:
Vesicoureteral reflux often becomes evident when a child experiences a urinary tract infection, particularly under the age of 5. Symptoms may include:
- Burning or pain while urinating
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Fever
- Frequent or urgent urination
- Vomiting
Infants may show less obvious signs such as:
- Poor feeding
- Diarrhea
- Unexplained irritability
- Fever
VUR is sometimes suspected during prenatal ultrasounds if swelling in the kidneys (hydronephrosis) is detected.
How is VUR Diagnosed?
While an ultrasound may suggest kidney or ureteral dilation, a definitive diagnosis requires a Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG). In this test, a contrast dye is introduced into the bladder through a catheter, and X-rays are taken to see whether the dye refluxes into the ureters or kidneys.
VUR is graded from I (mild) to V (severe), which helps determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment Options for Vesicoureteral Reflux in Delhi:
There are three main approaches to managing VUR:
Antibiotic Therapy: Long-term, low-dose antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infections while waiting for the reflux to resolve naturally. However, this carries a risk of developing antibiotic-resistant infections and requires frequent monitoring.
Surgical Correction: In moderate to severe VUR cases, particularly if one or both kidneys are at risk, Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery for Children in Delhi is often the best option. Surgical correction, either by open or laparoscopic technique, reconstructs the faulty valve mechanism to prevent urine backflow. It offers a permanent solution in most cases.
Endoscopic Deflux Injection: This is a minimally invasive daycare procedure in which a bulking gel is injected where the ureter enters the bladder. It strengthens the valve function and prevents reflux. This is ideal for children with low to moderate VUR and works particularly well for one-sided reflux. Some children may need repeat injections for optimal results.
Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery Child in Delhi — Get Expert Care:
If your child has been diagnosed with VUR, timely consultation with a pediatric urologist is essential. Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery for Children in Delhi is widely available and performed by experienced specialists using both advanced and minimally invasive techniques. Early intervention can prevent long-term kidney complications and improve your child’s quality of life.
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