Hydronephrosis

The term hydronephrosis means “water in the kidney.” If there is a blockage present in your child’s urinary system, the kidneys can swell from a backup of urine, known as reflux. 

Finding the Cause Is the First Step
Finding the cause of your child’s hydronephrosis is the first step in their treatment. It may be caused by a blockage in the flow of urine at some point in your child’s urinary tract or a problem with the valve in the ureter that causes urine to flow backward from the bladder (reflux). Sometimes, these problems can affect the development and function of one or both kidneys.

Your Child Is in Good Hands
These conditions may be initially diagnosed during a routine pregnancy ultrasound. Or your child may experience symptoms, such as admominal pain or frequent urinary tract infects (UTIs) that will prompt your child's doctor to refer you to a pediatric urologist. In either case, you are in good hands. Our pediatric urologists work closely with obstetricians, pediatricians, and nephrologists to give your child comprehensive care.

If Your Child Needs Surgery
Surgery is usually not needed for hydronephrosis, but if your child needs surgery, you can feel confident knowing your child will receive the most effective, least-invasive care possible. Duke Children’s is verified as a Level I Verified Children’s Surgery Center by the American College of Surgeons. This designation recognizes our commitment to providing the safest and highest-quality surgical care to our young patients. We make sure you understand the procedure and that you know what to expect before, during, and after surgery. We discuss what’s right for your child, answer all your questions, and do everything we can to make the experience as worry-free as possible.