PUV Treatment in Lucknow | Dr. Aditya P.S. Sengar

What is Posterior Urethral Valve (PUV)?

Posterior Urethral Valve (PUV) is a congenital condition affecting male infants where abnormal folds of tissue in the posterior urethra obstruct the flow of urine from the bladder. This obstruction can lead to a range of urinary tract issues, including bladder dysfunction, hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidneys), and potentially severe kidney damage.

In PUV, the abnormal tissue acts as a partial or complete blockage, impeding normal urine flow and causing urinary tract problems.

Causes of Posterior Urethral Valve(PUV):

PUV is caused by the abnormal development of the urethra during fetal growth. The exact reason for this developmental defect is not well understood but is believed to be related to genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms of Posterior Urethral Valve(PUV)

Poor urine stream
Straining during urination
Frequent urination
Recurrent urinary tract infections
Failure to thrive (poor growth)
Abdominal distension
Difficulty in urination
In severe cases, signs of kidney failure

Diagnosis

Prenatal Ultrasound: May detect hydronephrosis or a distended bladder in the fetus.
Postnatal Ultrasound: Evaluates the kidneys and bladder for structural abnormalities after birth.
Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG): An X-ray test where contrast dye is used to visualize the urethra and bladder during urination, confirming the presence of valves.
Cystoscopy: A direct visual examination of the urethra using a small camera to identify and assess the valves.

Treatment

Surgical Intervention: Endoscopic ablation is the primary treatment, where the valves are removed using a cystoscope. This procedure helps restore normal urine flow.
Long-term Management: Regular monitoring for kidney function, bladder health, and urinary tract infections. Some children may need additional treatments for bladder dysfunction or kidney issues.

The prognosis for children with PUV varies based on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of early treatment. With prompt surgical intervention and ongoing management, many children can lead normal lives, although they may require long-term follow-up for potential kidney and bladder issues. If anyone you know is experiencing Posterior Urethral Valve(PUV), it is important to consult Dr. Aditya P.S. Sengar, urologist in Lucknow, for Posterior Urethral Valve(PUV) treatment.

PUV diagnosis, valve ablation, and long-term follow-up

Posterior urethral valve treatment in Lucknow focuses on relieving urinary obstruction in boys and protecting the bladder and kidneys. Dr. Aditya P.S. Sengar evaluates antenatal hydronephrosis, weak stream, UTIs, bladder wall changes, reflux, and kidney function to plan treatment and follow-up.

When PUV is suspected

PUV may be suspected in male infants or boys with poor stream, distended bladder, recurrent UTI, hydronephrosis, reflux, or abnormal antenatal scans.

Diagnosis focus

Ultrasound, kidney function tests, VCUG/MCU, urine culture, and cystoscopy help confirm obstruction and assess bladder-kidney impact.

Treatment planning

Cystoscopic valve ablation is commonly used, followed by long-term monitoring for bladder dysfunction, reflux, infections, and kidney function.

Tests for PUV

PUV is often suspected on a scan before birth, and these tests confirm it and show how the bladder and kidneys are doing.

Ultrasound after birth: shows swelling of the kidneys, a thick or large bladder and other changes.
VCUG or MCU: an X-ray test while the bladder empties. It shows the valve blockage in the urine tube and any backward flow of urine.
Blood tests (creatinine and salts): show how well the kidneys are working.
Urine test: checks for infection.
Cystoscopy: a look inside the urine tube with a very thin camera, usually done at the time of treatment, to confirm the valves.
Renal scan: may be advised later to check kidney function and drainage.

How PUV is treated

In a newborn, a thin soft tube (catheter) is usually placed first to drain the bladder and relieve the pressure.
Infection, salts and kidney function are checked and treated until the baby is stable.
Valve ablation is then done under anaesthesia. A very thin camera is passed through the urine opening and the blocking valve tissue is cut. There is no cut on the skin.
In some very small or unwell babies, a temporary opening for urine on the tummy (vesicostomy) may be needed before valve treatment.
After treatment, the bladder and kidneys are watched over the long term, and some children need extra care for bladder function.

Recovery after PUV treatment

First 24-48 hoursA catheter is usually left in for a short time after valve ablation. Feeding usually continues as normal.
First 1-2 weeksMost babies go home within a few days once the catheter is removed and urine is flowing.
First few monthsRepeat ultrasound, blood tests and sometimes a repeat VCUG or cystoscopy are done to confirm the valves are fully treated.
Through childhoodRegular check-ups for bladder habits, urine infections, growth and kidney function are important, even if your child seems well.

Dr. Aditya P.S. Sengar will make a long-term follow-up plan for your son, and it is important to keep every visit.

Cost of PUV treatment in Lucknow

The cost of PUV care depends on how unwell the baby is at the start, whether a stay in the newborn unit is needed, the valve procedure itself and the number of follow-up tests. Valve ablation is done through a camera without a skin cut, and the cost is usually more reasonable than parents expect.

Almost all health insurance and cashless schemes are accepted at Precision Urology Hospital, so most families are covered. You will receive a clear estimate before treatment, so there are no surprises. You can send your baby's scan reports on WhatsApp for a free first opinion. Cover depends on your own policy, and the team can check it with your insurer before treatment.

Send reports for a free opinion