Question:

My 11-year-old underwent a ureter reimplantation surgery in Dec. 2008 to resolve kidney reflux / infection. Follow up tests (ultrasound / IVP, etc.) — May 2009 — reflected improvement in appearance of kidney and ureter and my son appeared to be recovering well. About 2 – 3 months ago he began experiencing occasional abdominal pain, but it would subside. A check up in June 2010 — with us / ivp — revealed an inflamed ureter and kidney. Dr. immediately suggested reimplantation redo, but cannot clearly identify exact procedure or whether procedure will resolve problem. Is it `normal` to undergo repeat of this type of procedure and should it generally resolve the problem?

Answer:

This question is difficult to answer. In most children ureteral reimplantation is permanent and does not need to be repeated. However, occasionally a ureter becomes obstructed and needs a second procedure to correct the problem. Most often this occurs in children with bladder or bowel dysfunction. Usually the need for repeat surgery is apparent when the first follow-up ultrasound is done.

I am uncertain what you meant by ‘inflamed ureter and kidney”–do you mean hydronephrosis? If so, then other radiologic studies might be necessary. If your son is not seeing a fulltime pediatric urologist, then it might be worthwhile having him see one. Also, before a repeat surgical procedure is done, it is important that you understand what the surgeon is planning to do and why.

For more information:

Go to the Urinary and Genital Disorders (Children) health topic.