Pyeloplasty Surgery for PUJ Obstruction: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Pelvi-Ureteric Junction (PUJ) Obstruction is a condition in which the urine flow gets blocked at the point where the kidney joins the ureter. pyeloplasty for PUJ obstruction This blockage prevents urine from draining properly, causing swelling, pressure and pain in the kidney. If not treated in time, PUJ obstruction can damage kidney function and lead to repeated infections.

Pyeloplasty surgery is the most effective treatment for correcting this obstruction. In this blog, let’s understand PUJ obstruction, its symptoms and how pyeloplasty helps restore healthy kidney function.

What is PUJ Obstruction?

PUJ obstruction occurs when the junction between the renal pelvis (kidney) and the ureter becomes narrow or blocked.
This prevents urine produced by the kidney from moving down into the urinary bladder.

As a result:
Urine builds up in the kidney
The kidney becomes swollen (hydronephrosis)
Pain and discomfort occur
Kidney function slowly weakens if untreated

Common Causes of PUJ Obstruction

PUJ obstruction may be present from birth or develop later in life due to:

Congenital narrowing of the PUJ
Kidney stones blocking the junction
Scarring from previous infections
Compression from nearby blood vessels
Injury or trauma
Recurrent urinary infections

Symptoms of PUJ Obstruction

Patients may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

Pain in the Back or Side (Flank Pain)
This pain may be dull, severe or come in waves, especially after drinking fluids.

Swelling of the Kidney
Urine buildup leads to significant pressure and enlargement of the kidney.

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Frequent infections are a warning sign of blocked urine flow.

Nausea and Vomiting
Pressure on the kidney often causes digestive symptoms.

Burning Sensation While Urinating
If infection is present, urination becomes painful.

Blood in Urine
Some patients notice pink or reddish urine.

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to serious kidney damage, so early evaluation is very important.

What is Pyeloplasty Surgery?

Pyeloplasty is a reconstructive surgery performed to remove the narrowed or blocked portion of the PUJ and reconnect the healthy sections of the kidney and ureter.

How Pyeloplasty Helps:
Removes the obstructed, narrow segment
Restores smooth urine flow
Relieves swelling and pressure on the kidney
Prevents further kidney damage
Reduces pain and infection risk

The surgery can be done as:
Open Pyeloplasty
Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty (minimally invasive)
Robotic Pyeloplasty (advanced technique)
Patients usually recover well and regain normal kidney function after the procedure.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Delaying treatment can cause:
Permanent kidney damage
Loss of kidney function
Recurrent infections
Severe pain

Risk of kidney failure
Timely pyeloplasty helps protect and preserve the kidney for long-term health.

Conclusion

PUJ Obstruction is a serious but highly treatable condition. If you experience flank pain, recurrent infections or swelling in the kidney, consult a urologist immediately. Pyeloplasty surgery is safe, effective and offers excellent long-term results by restoring natural urine flow and preventing kidney damage.

For expert evaluation and treatment, always choose a trained and experienced urology specialist.