ABSTRACT
Background: Pelvi-ureteric junction obstruction (PUJO) is defined as anatomical or functional obstruction to the flow of urine from the pelvis to the upper ureter. This may be unilateral or bilateral. Most of the hydronephrosis cases are due to Pyelo-ureteral junction obstruction (PUJO) which can be diagnosed antenatally. The treatment protocol for antenatal diagnosed PUJO is standardized. Few children present later in life. Present study was done to evaluate clinical profile and outcome of infants and children (<12years) presenting with PUJO. Methods: A retrospective observational study conducted by the department of Paediatric Surgery, SDM hospital Dharwad. All children with age less than 12 years with PUJO from March 2017 to March 2020 were included in the study (n=51). Initial evaluation was done with Ultrasound KUB (Kidney, Ureter, Bladder). A diuretic renogram/ EC (Ethylene cysteine) was done to confirm the diagnosis. The children were managed both conservatively and surgically (Pyeloplasty), depending on the presentation. The children were followed up post-surgery. Results: Fifty one patients were included in the study. Mean age of presentation was 31±30 months. Most common presentation was pain abdomen which was seen in 9 patients (17.6%). 6 patients (11.7%) presented with Lump and 2(4%) presented with fever. Left kidney was commonly involved (66%). Males predominate (80%). The mean antero-posterior pelvic dimension (APPD) of involved kidney was 30mm with range from 12.5mm to 68mm. 4 (7.8%) children presented with poorly functioning kidney with split renal function less than 10%. PUJO was associated with Pelvic calculi, VUR, Horseshoe kidney, Mal-rotated kidney. Out of the 51 patients, 9 (17.6%) were kept in conservative management 42 (82.3%) underwent Pyeloplasty. Among 42, 1 underwent redopyeloplasty and 1 underwent nephrectomy. In rest of the operated patients (Post-pyeloplasty) diuretic renogram showed improved drainage with improved function. Conclusions: PUJO is common cause of urinary obstruction in children. Earlier the diagnosis, better the outcome. Delay in diagnosis or presentation leads to increased chances of renal damage and loss. Hence it is important to diagnose PUJ obstruction at the earliest and receive prompt treatment.