What is Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR)?

 


🩺 Vesicoureteric Reflux (VUR)

Vesicoureteric Reflux (VUR) is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the kidneys, potentially leading to urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney damage, or scarring.

The kidneys produce urine, which travels down tubes called the ureters. The ureters empty into the bladder where urine is stored. During urination, the bladder contracts & urethral sphincter relaxes.

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) occurs when urine in the bladder flows back into one or both ureters and often back into the kidneys. This may occur because of the position of the ureter in the bladder wall.

VUR is graded according to severity from grade 1 (mild) to grade 5 (severe).

The level of severity is determined by urine flow and the extent of the associated dilation.

🔍 Causes of VUR

VUR can be caused by:

  • Congenital Defects: Malformation of the valve between the bladder and ureter.

  • Neurological Conditions: Affecting bladder control.

  • Urinary Tract Obstructions: Hindering normal urine flow.

🧪 Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves:

  • Ultrasound: To visualize the urinary tract.

  • Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG): To detect reflux.

  • DMSA Scan: To assess kidney function and scarring.

🩺 Treatment Options

Lower grades of reflux will often resolve on their own, typically at 5 to 6 years of age. The goal is to prevent UTIs and kidney damage while the reflux is improving.

Antibiotic prophylaxis: It has been the gold standard of care.
Bathroom habits and fluid intake: If your child is toilet-trained, her bathroom habits are very important. We encourage your child to empty her bladder every two to three hours, without holding. We assess for any signs of constipation which can contribute to the occurrence of a UTI. We also ask your child to increase the amount of water she drinks. All of these steps can help reduce the risk of bacteria growing in your child’s urine.
Surgical intervention: Children who have grade 4 and 5 reflux or who have had repeated UTIs with concerns of kidney scarring, may require surgical intervention to fix the reflux.

Treatment varies based on the severity:

  • Antibiotic Prophylaxis: To prevent UTIs.

  • Surgical Intervention: In cases of severe reflux or kidney damage.

🏥 Why Choose Dr. Aadil Farooq?

Dr. Aadil Farooq is a Consultant Pediatric Urologist specializing in:

  • Pediatric Urology

  • Pediatric Surgery

  • Pediatric Neuro-Urology

With expertise in:

  • Pediatric Reconstructive Surgery

  • Endo Urology

  • Laparoscopy

  • Deflux

  • Botox

  • Laser Surgery



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