What is Posterior Urethral Valve (PUV)?
Posterior Urethral Valve (PUV) is a congenital condition found in male infants. It involves the presence of abnormal flaps of tissue in the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. These flaps can obstruct the flow of urine, leading to various urinary tract problems.
Symptoms:
• Difficulty in urinating or weak urinary stream.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Swollen kidneys. (hydroureteronephrosis)
• Poor weight gain and growth in infants.
• Severe cases may lead to kidney damage or failure.
Diagnosis:
• Prenatal Ultrasound: Often, PUV can be detected before birth during routine ultrasounds.
• Postnatal Ultrasound: After birth, an ultrasound can assess the kidneys, bladder, and urethra.
• Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG): An X-ray test that visualizes the bladder and urethra during urination to detect any obstruction.
• Cystoscopy: A direct visual examination of the urethra and bladder using a small camera.
Treatment:
The treatment for PUV is typically surgical. Dr. Mishra is skilled in performing the following procedures:
• Endoscopic Valve Ablation: The primary treatment involves using a cystoscope to remove or ablate the valve tissue obstructing the urethra.
• Urinary Diversion: In severe cases, a temporary diversion may be created to allow urine to bypass the obstructed urethra.
• Monitoring and Follow-up: Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor kidney function and urinary tract health. This includes ultrasounds and renal function tests.
Post-Treatment Care:
• Continuous monitoring of kidney function and urinary tract health.
• Addressing any urinary infections promptly.
• Regular check-ups to ensure normal growth and development of the child.
Prevention and Early Detection:
• Prenatal Care: Regular prenatal check-ups and ultrasounds can help in early detection.
• Awareness: Understanding the symptoms and seeking early medical intervention can prevent complications.
Dr. Saurabh Mishra’s clinic offers comprehensive care for children with PUV, from diagnosis to treatment and long-term follow-up. His expertise ensures that each patient receives personalized and effective treatment to manage and overcome this condition.