Posterior Urethral Valve (PUV) is a rare but serious congenital condition seen exclusively in male infants. It involves the presence of abnormal membranous folds in the urethra — the tube responsible for carrying urine from the bladder outside the body. These valves obstruct the normal flow of urine, leading to increased bladder pressure and backward flow toward the kidneys (a condition known as hydronephrosis). If not managed early, it can result in irreversible kidney damage and eventually lead to end-stage renal failure.
The incidence of PUV is approximately 1 in 800 male newborns, making early diagnosis and timely intervention critical for preserving renal and bladder function.
Signs and Symptoms of Posterior Urethral Valve:
PUV may be detected even before birth during a routine antenatal ultrasound, which may show:
- Bilateral Hydroureteronephrosis (swelling of the ureters and kidneys)
- A Thick-Walled, Distended Bladder
After Birth, Common Symptoms Include:
- Weak Urinary Stream
- Straining While Urinating
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs
- Failure to Thrive or Poor Growth
In some infants, the condition may not become apparent until they experience urinary retention or kidney dysfunction.
Diagnostic Investigations:
If PUV is suspected based on clinical presentation and ultrasound findings, a Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG) is the gold standard for confirmation.
- In this test, contrast material is introduced into the bladder through a catheter, and X-ray images are taken as the child urinates.
- This helps visualize the obstructive membrane and assess bladder and kidney function.
Blood and urine tests may also be performed to assess renal function and detect ongoing infections.
Posterior Urethral Valve Treatment in Delhi:
At specialized pediatric urology centers in Delhi, such as Gastro Delhi, Posterior Urethral Valve Treatment is managed using advanced, minimally invasive techniques by experienced pediatric surgeons and urologists.
Treatment Goals Include:
- Relieving the obstruction
- Preserving kidney function
- Preventing infections
- Maintaining normal bladder function
Valve Ablation (Primary Treatment):
The mainstay of treatment is endoscopic valve ablation, where a cystoscope — a tiny instrument — is inserted into the urethra under anesthesia. The obstructing valves are precisely incised under direct vision, relieving the pressure and allowing urine to drain normally. This procedure is safe and can even be performed on newborns.
Urinary Diversion (In Special Cases):
In severe cases with significant infection or poor renal function, a temporary urinary diversion such as vesicostomy or ureterostomy may be needed. These procedures help drain urine directly from the bladder or ureters to prevent further damage until the child is stable enough for definitive surgery.
Long-term Follow-up and Care:
Even after successful valve ablation, children require long-term follow-up with both pediatric urologists and nephrologists.
Follow-up Care Includes:
- Regular ultrasounds to monitor kidney health
- Blood and urine tests to assess renal function
- Monitoring for urinary tract infections
- Medications to improve bladder emptying and control pressure
- Nutritional and growth assessments
Expert Care in Delhi:
Delhi is home to some of the best pediatric urology centers offering Posterior Urethral Valve Treatment in Delhi, combining state-of-the-art equipment with compassionate, child-centered care. Early diagnosis, timely surgical intervention, and comprehensive long-term monitoring are the key pillars for achieving favorable outcomes in children diagnosed with PUV.
If your child is diagnosed with Posterior Urethral Valve, consult a specialist in pediatric urology in Delhi without delay. With proper treatment, many children go on to live healthy, active lives.
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