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Understanding Hydronephrosis

Hydronephrosis is the swelling of one or both kidneys due to urine backup. It is not a disease in itself but rather a physical symptom of an underlying condition, such as a blockage in the urinary tract or urine flowing backward from the bladder (reflux).

Causes of Hydronephrosis

Hydronephrosis can be congenital or acquired, caused by:

  • Blockages (Obstruction): Narrowing at the kidney-ureter junction (UPJO), ureter-bladder junction (UVJO), or posterior urethral valves (PUV).
  • Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR): Failure of the valve mechanism, letting urine travel backward into the kidney.

Signs of Hydronephrosis

While frequently diagnosed during routine prenatal ultrasounds, postnatal signs include:

  • Recurrent UTIs: High-fever urinary infections due to pooled urine in the kidney.
  • Abdominal/Flank Pain: Pain in the side or back, which may worsen with high fluid intake.
  • Hematuria: Blood in the urine.
  • Palpable Abdominal Mass: An enlarged, swollen kidney that can be felt during physical exam.

Why Early Intervention Matters

While many cases of mild hydronephrosis resolve on their own, severe or worsening cases can indicate a significant blockage. If this obstruction is not addressed, the increased pressure can lead to irreversible kidney damage and loss of function. Regular monitoring and timely surgical intervention are vital to preserving the affected kidney's health and ensuring its proper growth.

Comprehensive Care Approach

Our approach is highly individualized, relying on advanced imaging like MAG3 diuretic renograms to assess kidney function and drainage. We prioritize non-operative management whenever safe, but when surgery is necessary, Dr. Chowdhary employs cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques. We also provide continuous follow-up care to monitor the kidney's development throughout childhood.

Advanced Care

Treatment Options

Active Surveillance

Regular monitoring with ultrasounds and scans for mild cases that are likely to resolve spontaneously.

Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty

Surgical correction of blockages at the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) using minimally invasive keyhole surgery.

Robotic Pyeloplasty

Highly precise robotic-assisted reconstruction of the urinary tract for complex or delicate cases.

Step-by-Step

The Surgical Process

01. Functional Assessment

We perform a MAG3 Renal Scan to determine the exact degree of obstruction and how much the kidney function is affected.

02. Laparoscopic Repair

Performed through three tiny 3mm incisions. The blockage is cleared and a wide opening is created for urine to flow freely.

03. Post-Operative Care

The child stays in the hospital for 48 hours. The internal stent is removed 4 weeks later via a simple daycare procedure.

Patient Stories

Hear From The Parents

"My 3-month-old had severe hydronephrosis. Dr. Sujit performed lap pyeloplasty. His reassuring nature gave us strength, and the scar is barely visible!"

Priya & Ankit Sharma
Parents

"We were terrified after the antenatal scan showed kidney swelling. Dr. Chowdhary guided us throughout. No surgery was needed in the end, just monitoring."

Vikram Singh
Father

"Expert hands! Dr. Sujit's diagnostic clarity saved our son's kidney function. The recovery was much faster than we expected. Thank you, Doctor."

Aarti S.
Mother

"The laparoscopic surgery for our baby's condition was so precise. Dr. Chowdhary's confidence gave us immense peace of mind during a very stressful time."

Anita Sharma
Mother of infant patient

"We traveled from another state just for Dr. Chowdhary. His reputation is well-deserved; his approach is very scientific and methodical yet very caring."

Karan Singh
Parent

"The nursing staff and Dr. Sujit are a fantastic team. They handled our infant's surgery with so much care and warmth. Highly recommended for any parent."

Priya R.
Mother
Dr. Sujit Chowdhary

The Specialist Choice

Why Choose Dr. Sujit Chowdhary?

Hydronephrosis requires a nuanced approach—deciding when to operate and when to wait is the hallmark of an expert paediatric urologist.

  • Decades of experience in managing neonatal urology.
  • High success rate in minimally invasive Pyeloplasty.
  • Precision imaging protocols to avoid unnecessary surgery.
  • Advanced post-operative pain management protocols.
  • Dedicated support for international and outstation patients.
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Common Queries

Frequently Asked Questions

What is hydronephrosis?

Hydronephrosis is the swelling of one or both kidneys due to a buildup of urine, often caused by a blockage in the urinary tract.

Does antenatal hydronephrosis always require surgery after birth?

No, many cases of hydronephrosis detected on pregnancy scans resolve spontaneously and only require ultrasound monitoring and antibiotic prophylaxis.

What is the most common cause of hydronephrosis in children?

Pelviureteric Junction Obstruction (PUJO) is the most common cause, where the junction between the kidney and ureter is narrowed.

How is hydronephrosis evaluated?

Evaluation is done using postnatal ultrasound and a kidney scan (DTPA or MAG3) to measure kidney drainage and function.

When is surgery (pyeloplasty) indicated?

Surgery is indicated if there is a significant blockage, deterioration of kidney function, recurrent pain, or infections.

What is a pyeloplasty?

It is a surgical procedure to remove the blocked segment and reconnect the ureter to the kidney pelvis. It is highly successful.

Can pyeloplasty be performed laparoscopically or robotically?

Yes, minimally invasive laparoscopic or robotic pyeloplasty is standard, providing excellent results and quick recovery.

Get in Touch

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Early diagnosis and treatment of hydronephrosis is key to saving kidney function. Schedule a consultation today.

Clinic Address

D6, Club, 2, opposite Vasant Vihar, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi, Delhi 110057

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+91 98732 06761

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