Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery Treatment in Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune

Overview

Children’s health issues can be worrying for parents, especially when they involve the urinary system. One such condition is vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and sometimes up to the kidneys. Normally, urine moves one way—from kidneys → ureters → bladder. But in VUR, the valve at the bladder-ureter junction doesn’t work properly, causing this reverse flow.

This backward flow can lead to repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney swelling, and even long-term kidney damage if not treated on time. While some children outgrow the condition as they grow older, others may require medical treatment or vesicoureteral reflux surgery for lasting correction.

Types of Vesicoureteral Reflux

Doctors classify VUR into two types:

  1. Primary VUR – A congenital (from birth) problem caused by a defective valve between the ureter and bladder. This is the most common type in children.
  2. Secondary VUR – Occurs due to other urinary tract issues, such as bladder blockage, frequent infections, or nerve-related bladder dysfunction.

VUR is also graded from Grade I (mild reflux) to Grade V (severe reflux with kidney swelling). This grading helps doctors decide the best treatment option.

Vesicoureteral Reflux Causes

The most common vesicoureteral reflux causes include:

  • Congenital defect: Children may be born with an abnormal ureter-bladder valve.
  • Weak valve mechanism: The valve fails to close properly, allowing urine to flow backward.
  • Bladder obstruction or infection: Sometimes secondary conditions cause reflux.
  • Nerve-related bladder issues: Problems with bladder control may also contribute.

Understanding these causes helps in planning whether medical management or VUR surgery is needed.

Vesicoureteral Reflux Symptoms

Some children with mild VUR may not show obvious signs. However, common vesicoureteral reflux symptoms include:

  • Frequent or painful urination
  • Fever with or without chills
  • Bedwetting or accidental urine leakage
  • Poor weight gain or slow growth in infants
  • Abdominal or flank pain
  • Blood in urine (in some cases)
  • Repeated urinary tract infections

If these symptoms are noticed repeatedly, it is important to consult a pediatric specialist.

Diagnosis of VUR

Doctors use a combination of history, symptoms, and tests to diagnose VUR

  • Urine tests – To detect infections.
  • Ultrasound – To check kidneys and bladder for swelling.
  • Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) – An X-ray taken while the child urinates, showing if urine flows backward.
  • Renal scan – To assess kidney function and scarring.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of reflux and the child’s age. The goals are to prevent kidney damage, stop infections, and correct the valve defect.

1. Medical Management

  • Low-dose antibiotics to prevent infections.
  • Regular monitoring with ultrasounds and urine tests.
  • Many children with mild VUR outgrow the condition as their urinary system matures.

2. Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery

When medication is not enough, or if reflux is severe, VUR surgery is recommended. Surgical options include:

  • Open ureteral reimplantation: The surgeon repositions the ureter so the valve works properly. This is highly effective.
  • Endoscopic surgery: A minimally invasive approach where a gel is injected to support the valve.
  • Laparoscopic/robotic-assisted surgery: Advanced techniques, including robotic-assisted surgery, that use smaller cuts, ensure precise movements, reduce pain, promote faster healing, and cause less discomfort compared to traditional open surgery.

Vesicoureteral reflux surgery ensures the problem is corrected permanently, reducing the risk of kidney infections and damage.

Recovery and Follow-Up

After surgery, most children recover quickly with proper care. Parents are advised to:

  • Give prescribed medications regularly.
  • Encourage good hydration.
  • Watch for signs of fever, painful urination, or unusual urine color.
  • Follow up with the pediatric urologist as advised.

With timely treatment and follow-up, children can lead completely normal, healthy lives.

Conclusion

Vesicoureteral reflux is a condition that should not be ignored, as repeated infections can cause kidney damage. While mild cases may resolve naturally, moderate to severe cases often require vesicoureteral reflux surgery. With expert pediatric care available at Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, the best pediatric hospital in Pimpri-Chinchwad, families can be assured of safe and effective treatment for their children. Guided by the best pediatrician in Pimpri-Chinchwad, the hospital provides advanced diagnosis, personalized treatment, and compassionate care to help children recover and lead healthy lives.

Find Vesicoureteral Reflux Surgery Near You

Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital provides advanced pediatric care for VUR (Vesicoureteral Reflux) surgery in Pimpri-Chinchwad and nearby areas, including Hinjewadi, Wakad, Baner, Aundh, Pimple Saudagar, Bhosari, Ravet, Chinchwad Gaon, Tathawade, Nigdi, PCMC, Pimpri, Moshi, and Chakan. With expert pediatric urologists, modern facilities, and compassionate care, we ensure the best outcomes for children requiring VUR treatment.


1. What is vesicoureteral reflux surgery?

It is a procedure to fix the valve between the bladder and ureters to prevent urine from flowing backward.

2. Do all children with VUR need surgery?

No. Many children with mild reflux improve with age. Surgery is usually advised for severe reflux or repeated infections.

3. Is VUR surgery safe for children?

Yes. Modern surgical methods are safe and have high success rates when performed by experienced pediatric surgeons.

4. How long does recovery take after VUR surgery?

Most children recover in 1–2 weeks, depending on the type of surgery performed.

5. Can untreated VUR cause long-term problems?

Yes. If untreated, VUR can lead to kidney infections, scarring, and even kidney failure in severe cases.