Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV)

Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) is a congenital disorder in male neonates, marked by irregular membrane folds in the posterior urethra that impede urinary passage from the bladder. This blockage makes urine build up, which makes the bladder bigger and hurts the urinary tract, including the kidneys and ureters. PUV is discovered in about 1 in 8,000 male newborns and can be found before birth with an ultrasound or after birth when symptoms show up.

Some symptoms are a weak urine stream, urinary tract infections, trouble peeing, and not being able to control urination. Severe obstruction can cause kidney damage and chronic renal disease because pee backs up for a long time and the pressure rises. Surgery to remove or destroy the valves is the main treatment. Such surgery is usually done with endoscopic procedures soon after delivery. It is crucial to closely monitor and manage many children over time to prevent long-term complications and maintain their kidney function.

Early diagnosis and treatment lead to better outcomes, although some kids may still have problems with their kidneys or bladder even after treatment. Children with PUV generally need care from many different specialists and regular checkups for the rest of their lives to help with urine problems and keep their kidneys healthy.