Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) Treatment in Bangalore
Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) Treatment in Bangalore
Personalized Pediatric Urology Care by Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar at Shree Srinivasa Uro Care
Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) is a rare but serious condition that affects boys. It involves the formation of extra flaps of tissue in the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. These flaps block or restrict urine flow, which can put pressure on the bladder and even harm the kidneys over time.
At Shree Srinivasa Uro Care, every child is seen and treated directly by Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar, a highly skilled urologist known for his hands-on, compassionate approach to pediatric urology. There is no team rotation or hand-off; you get direct care from a dedicated expert.
What Causes PUV?
PUV develops during pregnancy, typically as a random developmental abnormality in male fetuses. The valves are not supposed to be there, but for unknown reasons, they form and disrupt the urinary system. While it’s not inherited or caused by anything the mother does during pregnancy, PUV can lead to:
- Urine buildup in the bladder
- Pressure damage to the ureters and kidneys
- Long-term risk of kidney dysfunction if not treated in time
Recognizing the Symptoms
Some babies with PUV may show signs even before birth during a routine ultrasound. In other cases, it might become obvious shortly after birth or during early childhood. Symptoms to watch for include:
- A weak or slow urinary stream
- Difficulty urinating or straining
- Enlarged bladder (which may be felt as an abdominal swelling)
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Poor weight gain or failure to thrive
- Signs of kidney problems, such as vomiting, lethargy, or high blood pressure
Early diagnosis and management are crucial to protect long-term kidney health.
How Is PUV Diagnosed?
If there's suspicion of PUV—either during pregnancy or after birth—Dr. Shiva Kumar may recommend the following diagnostic tests:
- Abdominal ultrasound: Helps detect bladder enlargement or kidney swelling
- Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG): A special X-ray with dye to see how urine flows through the bladder and urethra
- Blood tests: To evaluate kidney function by measuring creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
- Urine tests: To check for infections or abnormalities
These tests help confirm the diagnosis and guide the treatment approach based on the severity of the obstruction.
Management of PUV at Shree Srinivasa Uro Care
Dr. Shiva Kumar creates a step-by-step plan that prioritizes your child's comfort, kidney function, and long-term recovery. Here's what treatment generally looks like:
1. Supportive Medical Care
Before surgery, supportive treatment is often needed to stabilize the child, especially in cases of infection, dehydration, or electrolyte imbalance. This may include:
- Antibiotics for treating or preventing UTIs
- IV fluids to correct dehydration
- Nutritional support to promote growth and recovery
2. Endoscopic Valve Ablation
This is the most common and preferred surgical procedure. Dr. Shiva Kumar uses a thin endoscope inserted through the urethra
- The obstructing valves are carefully visualized and removed
- This restores normal urine flow and relieves pressure on the bladder and kidneys
This procedure is minimally invasive and usually has a good outcome when performed early.
3. Vesicostomy (When Needed)
In certain complex or delayed cases, where immediate valve ablation is not possible or if kidney function is severely affected:
- A small surgical opening is created in the lower abdomen
- This allows urine to drain directly from the bladder
- It’s a temporary measure until the child is ready for definitive surgery
Dr. Shiva Kumar ensures that parents are guided every step of the way, from decision-making to recovery.
Why Parents Trust Shree Srinivasa Uro Care
What makes care at our clinic different is the personal attention your child receives. From diagnosis to post-surgery follow-ups, Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar handles every case himself, ensuring the highest level of consistency, safety, and reassurance for families.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is PUV treatable?
Yes, with early diagnosis and proper surgical care, most children recover well.
2.Can PUV affect kidney function long-term?
If untreated, it can. But with timely intervention, kidney function can often be preserved.
3.Will my child need ongoing checkups?
Yes, regular monitoring helps track kidney function and bladder health as your child grows.
4.Is surgery risky for infants?
It is generally safe when performed by an experienced pediatric urologist like Dr. Shiva Kumar.
5.What is the cost of PUV treatment in Bangalore?
The cost can vary based on the diagnostic tests needed and the type of surgery performed. Factors like hospital stay, surgical approach (laparoscopic vs. open), and use of robotic assistance can influence the final cost.
Book a Consultation
Worried about your child’s urinary health? Don't wait. Schedule a consultation with Dr. K. S. Shiva Kumar at Shree Srinivasa Uro Care.