A ureterocele is a bulge or pouch that develops at the end of the ureter, inside the bladder. It can cause a blockage and may decrease the flow of urine. This is a congenital (present at birth) condition that occurs more often in girls.
In normal anatomy, there is a single ureter (tube) connecting the kidney to the bladder. However, 90% of girls with an ureterocele have two ureters (duplex collecting system). It is most commonly diagnosed in children less than 2 years of age.
Usually, there are no symptoms. Sometimes you may notice your child experiencing:
Often, ureteroceles can be seen during prenatal ultrasounds, before the baby is born. However, some ureteroceles may not be discovered until a child is visits a health care provider for another problem, like a urinary tract infection.
This is the first imaging test that can be used to identify a ureterocele. With a prenatal ultrasound, the condition may be discovered before the baby is born.
This test is done with a series of X-rays of the bladder and lower urinary tract, using a special dye. First, a catheter is inserted into the urethra to fill the bladder with a water-based dye. Then, several X-rays are taken as the patient empties their bladder. These images allow radiologists to find problems in the anatomy and in the flow of urine.
This test can determine the function of each kidney, evaluate the kidneys for damage, and look for evidence of blocked urine flow across a ureterocele.
Treatment for a ureterocele depends on when it is identified, its size, the degree of obstruction/reflux, and the level of kidney function. If a ureterocele is identified in the prenatal period, treatment may include antibiotics.
After the baby is born, a minor procedure called “ureterocele incision” may be performed to correct the condition. This is done soon after birth, or while the child is still an infant, and uses a small camera to navigate through the bladder and urethra to reach and puncture the ureterocele. The incision will open the blockage, and urine will be able to flow more easily.
In older children with a ureterocele, the urologist will consider a range of treatment options and may only recommend observation. In more severe cases, reconstructive urinary tract surgery will be appropriate. Your child’s urologist will discuss the options with you and recommend the best course of treatment.
UT Pediatric Urology
UT Physicians Professional Building
6410 Fannin St. Suite 950
Houston, Texas 77030
Phone: (832) 325-7234
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