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Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ) Obstruction

Obstruction of urinary flow and development of hydronephrosis due to narrowing at the junction connecting the renal pelvis to the ureter.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ) Obstruction?

Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is the obstruction of urinary flow due to narrowing at the point where the renal pelvis connects to the beginning of the ureter. This condition leads to urine accumulation in the kidney (hydronephrosis) and renal damage over time.

It can be congenital or acquired due to stones, trauma, inflammation, or crossing vessel compression. The congenital form is usually detected incidentally on antenatal ultrasonography.

In symptomatic cases or those impairing renal function, pyeloplasty (surgical repair of the narrowing between the renal pelvis and the ureter) constitutes the basis of treatment and provides a 90-95% success rate.

Symptoms

Intermittent flank pain (especially after large fluid intake — Dietl's crisis)
Episodes of low back pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting
Blood in the urine
Recurrent kidney infections
Abdominal mass in children (large hydronephrosis)
Dilation of the renal pelvis on antenatal ultrasonography

Risk Factors

Congenital UPJ anomaly
Crossing vessel compression (aberrant renal artery)
Complication of kidney stones
Previous ureteric procedure or infection
Retroperitoneal fibrosis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Episodes of severe intermittent low back pain
  • Detection of hydronephrosis on ultrasonography
  • Recurrent kidney infections
  • Loss of renal function on renography (MAG3 scintigraphy)
  • Large abdominal mass in children

Treatment Methods

01
Laparoscopic or robotic dismembered pyeloplasty: resection of the stricture and re-anastomosis (gold standard)
02
Open pyeloplasty: in complicated or reoperative cases
03
Endopyelotomy: opening the stricture with endoscopic incision (in selected cases)
04
Percutaneous nephrostomy: temporary urinary drainage in acute obstruction
05
JJ stent placement: kidney protection before surgery

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.