The term vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) describes the retrograde flow of urine from the bladder into the upper urinary tract. VUR is not a disease entity in its own right. Nevertheless, it has the potential to cause significant morbidity by preventing effective emptying of the urinary tract and by facilitating the transport of bacteria into the upper tract and renal parenchyma. Mechanisms of renal damage associated with VUR include pyelonephritic scarring and congenital dysplasia or hypoplasia. The long-term complications of pyelonephritic scarring may include hypertension, renal failure, and an increased risk of complications during pregnancy. VUR of mild or moderate severity is best managed conservatively and surgical intervention is generally reserved for failed medical management and high grade or complex VUR. Although the introduction of endoscopic correction has revolutionized surgical management, there remains a role for open surgery for the correction of higher grades of reflux.
Endoscopic correction of primary vesicoureteric reflux: results in 94 ureters.
