Overview
A pyeloplasty is a corrective surgery to treat a blockage or restriction of the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ), the region where the kidney attaches to the ureter. This blockage can cause urine to flow in reverse, which results in pain and significant damage to the kidney over time. During a pyeloplasty, the surgeon prepares for the resection of the restricted portion of the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) and rebuilds the urinary tract to ensure the seamless flow of urine from the kidney to the bladder.
The surgery can be carried out through open surgery or a less invasive surgical technique, depending on the patient’s overall health status and the surgeon’s surgical preferences. Surgery aims to ease symptoms, preserve kidney health and minimise or treat urinary symptoms.
Why do you perform a pyeloplasty?
Pyeloplasty is a surgery to treat a blockage of the ureteropelvic junction. This occurs when urine can't run smoothly to the bladder and instead reverses and collects in the kidneys. Like any surgical procedure, pyeloplasty carries certain risks and potential complications, which your surgeon will discuss with you in detail.
Urine normally accumulates inside the funnel-contoured region of the kidney, known as the renal pelvis. It travels through the ureter to enter the bladder. When there’s an obstruction within the ureteropelvic junction, complications such as infection, pain, and damage to the kidneys may occur.
How do you perform a pyeloplasty?
The procedure is performed while the patient is heavily sedated under general anaesthetic. Several tiny incisions are created over the abdomen as well as on the side where the kidney is located.
The use of a lighted, bendable scope in the procedure provides a comprehensive view of the surgical site. This advanced technology can reassure patients about the precision and thoroughness of the surgery, leading to a sense of confidence in the procedure.
Alternatively, an open pyeloplasty may also be performed. This involves creating a large abdominal incision to reach the kidney and ureter. The surgeon removes the restricted region of the UPJ, and the healthy parts are reattached to enable a better urine flow.
FAQ
- Better urine output
- Preserved kidney function
- Lower risk of scarring
- Higher rate of success
- UPJ obstruction that causes symptoms
- Limited kidney function
- Chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- The accumulation of urine within the kidney
- Renal colic
- Loss of kidney function
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are considered concerning urological symptoms?
- A weak urinary stream
- Signs of bladder stones
- Difficulty urinating
- Pain