Ultrasound pathology of ureteropelvic junction stenosis in children

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Posted by Master, Doctor Lam Thi Kim Chi - Department of Diagnostic Imaging - Vinmec Danang International Hospital
Narrow ureteropelvic junction in children is a common malformation of the urinary system, obstructing the flow of urine from the renal pelvis to the ureter. If not detected and treated promptly, it can lead to dilatation of the renal pelvis and serious kidney damage. For children, ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive and non-radioactive imaging method, so it is widely used.

1. Outline

The ureteral junction stenosis is the most common cause of obstructive disease in children, which is the obstruction of urine flow from the renal pelvis to the proximal ureter.
The most common frequency is around 5 years of age. In adults, it is usually diagnosed at the age of 30-40 years. Approximately 30-40% of infants with pyelonephritis can be diagnosed prenatally.

2. Causes of ureteral junction stenosis

Congenital uretero-pelvic junction stenosis accounts for most of the causes in children, caused by:
A functioning ureter; Physical stenosis; ureteral valve; Auxiliary blood vessels in the lower pole; Torsion, adhesion... Causes of acquired ureteropelvic junction stenosis:
vesicoureteral reflux; Inflammation: Scarring, narrowing... Injuries due to procedures; Benign and malignant tumors.

3. Risk factors for narrowing of the ureteropelvic junction

Gender: More common in boys than girls (ratio 2/1); Can be seen on 1 side or 2 sides, but the rate of stenosis on the left is 2 times higher than on the right; 50% of children have abnormalities of the urogenital system, 0.5-5% have accompanying vesico-ureteral reflux; 15% have horseshoe-shaped kidneys attached; Ectopic kidney accounts for 35% with narrowing of the pyelonephritis - ureter.

4. Ultrasound assessment of narrowing of the ureteropelvic junction

Ultrasound is used routinely during pregnancy to detect antenatal urinary system abnormalities. After birth, ultrasound can be used to screen and monitor diseases in children, with safety, non-invasiveness, no radiation and low cost.
In the pathology of narrowing of the ureteropelvic junction, ultrasound images can be seen such as: Large kidney, dilated renal calyces but not dilated ureters... In addition, tumors or abnormalities may be seen. Congenital urinary system accompanying.
On ultrasound, the doctor will measure the kidney size, the diameter before - after the renal pelvis, the thickness of the renal parenchyma. These indicators will be used to assess the degree of dilatation of the pyelonephritis, and compare and monitor in the next ultrasound visits, helping clinicians decide on the treatment method.
Currently, Vinmec Da Nang International General Hospital has a modern ultrasound system, and a team of experienced doctors will help customers diagnose and treat ureteral junction stenosis in children. Vinmec brings satisfaction to customers and is highly appreciated by industry experts by:
Gathering a team of leading pediatricians: including leading experts, have high professional qualifications (professor, associate professor, doctorate, master), rich experience, have worked at major hospitals such as Bach Mai, 108.. The doctors are all well-trained, Professional, conscientious - knowledgeable, knowledgeable about young psychology. In addition to domestic pediatric specialists, the Department of Pediatrics also has the participation of foreign experts (Japan, Singapore, Australia, USA) who are always pioneers in applying the latest and most effective treatment regimens. . Comprehensive services: In the field of Pediatrics, Vinmec provides a series of continuous medical examination and treatment services from Newborn to Pediatric and Vaccine,... according to international standards to help parents take care of their baby's health from birth to childhood. Advanced techniques: Vinmec has successfully deployed many specialized techniques to make the treatment of difficult diseases in pediatrics more effective: neurosurgery - skull, stem cell transplant blood in cancer treatment. Professional care: In addition to understanding children's psychology, Vinmec also pays special attention to the children's play space, helping them to play comfortably and get used to the hospital's environment, cooperate in treatment, improve the efficiency of medical treatment.

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