title: Ureteropelvic junction obstruction in the fetus.
abstract: Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is being detected with increasing frequency before birth. To clarify the natural history of fetal UPJ obstruction, we reviewed our experience managing 28 fetuses; there were 16 bilateral cases for a total of 44 renal units. None required decompression before birth. We found that fetal bilateral UPJ obstruction is associated with significant morbidity and mortality; resolution of fetal hydronephrosis secondary to UPJ obstruction is rare; antenatal diagnosis of UPJ obstruction improves clinical management by allowing early detection and appropriate treatment of otherwise clinically undetectable disease; oligohydramnios in the mature fetus with bilateral UPJ obstruction is an indication for early delivery and immediate repair; and prenatally diagnosed UPJ obstructions should be repaired as early as possible after birth.
mesh_terms: D000032:Abortion, Therapeutic; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D006869:Hydronephrosis / Q000209:etiology; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007668:Kidney / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D008297:Male; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011247:Pregnancy; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis; D013997:Time Factors; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014517:Ureteral Obstruction / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery