Vesicoureteral Reflux

What is Vesicoureteral Reflux?

Vesicoureteral reflux is a condition where the urine flows backward to the ureter and kidneys.  This condition is more common in infants. In severe cases, this condition can cause damage to kidneys.

What causes Vesicoureteral Reflux?

Vesicoureteral reflux occurs in two conditions:

• When the that allows the flow of urine from ureters to the  bladder allows the flow in the opposite direction also.
• When there is a blockage in the bladder that pushes urine in the opposite direction

What are the symptoms of Vesicoureteral Reflux?

Symptoms of vesicoureteral reflux are:

• Painful urination
• Sudden urge to urinate
• Blood in urine
• Fever
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• High blood pressure

How is Vesicoureteral Reflux diagnosed?

Diagnosis of vesicoureteral reflux involves:

Voiding cystourethogram (VCUG)

A dye is inserted into the bladder followed by an X-ray. The video helps observe whether the urine is flowing forward or backward.

Radionuclide cystogram (RNC)

This is similar to the voiding cystourethogram. Radioactive material and nuclear scan are used instead of dye and X-ray.

Abdominal ultrasound

Sound waves are used to produce image of the organs in the abdomen

Urodynamics

This test measures how much urine is retained and how much is passed.

What are the treatments for Vesicoureteral Reflux?

The treatment of vesicoureteral reflux includes:

Antibiotics

In case of infections antibiotics are recommended

Deflux

An injection is administered that creates a bulge at he bladder and makes it difficult for the urine to flow backward

Surgery

In case the problem is severe and causing damage to the kidneys, a surgery is performed to correct the conditon