Acute unilateral obstructive uropathy

Alternative names:

obstructive uropathy - unilateral - acute; ureteral obstruction

Treatment:

Treatment focuses on relief of the obstruction. Stents (drains placed in the ureter or in the renal pelvis) may provide short-term relief of symptoms. Surgical repair of the cause of the reflux is usually curative. Antibiotics may be given if there is a urinary tract infection. Nephrectomy or nephrotomy may be required.

Expectations (prognosis):

The probable outcome is variable. Kidney damage may be temporary if the cause of the obstruction can be cured before kidney failure develops. If only one kidney is involved, the other kidney will usually continue to function adequately.

Complications:

• permanent failure of the affected kidney (See chronic renal failure.)
• chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy
• chronic or recurrent urinary tract infection
• hypertension

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if flank pain or other symptoms of acute unilateral obstructive uropathy develop.

Call your health care provider if symptoms worsen during or after treatment, or if new symptoms develop.