Delayed Surgery for Kidney Hydronephrosis: Impact and Considerations

Q: Delayed Surgery for Kidney Hydronephrosis: Impact and Considerations

Hello： In response to your question, the cause of hydronephrosis is an obstruction in the urinary system during the process of urine excretion. <br>Possible causes include urinary tract stones, urinary tract strictures, or external compression of the urinary tract. <br>Hydronephr

Postponed surgery?

I have hydronephrosis caused by a narrowed ureter, and I need surgery to remove the narrowed section.
However, I cannot have the surgery until mid-September, and it is now early August.
Will this delay affect my hydronephrosis? Currently, my kidney function has decreased by 20%, and I am taking antibiotics for uterine inflammation.
Will this affect the hydronephrotic kidney? Can laparoscopic surgery be performed to remove the narrowed section of the ureter due to uterine inflammation? Thank you for your response.

jane, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/10

Dr. Yang Jun reply Internal Medicine

Hello: In response to your question, the cause of hydronephrosis is an obstruction in the urinary system during the process of urine excretion.
Possible causes include urinary tract stones, urinary tract strictures, or external compression of the urinary tract.
Hydronephrosis can lead to urinary tract infections, such as pyelonephritis, and may cause symptoms like flank pain, fever, and increased frequency of urination.
Taking antibiotics will not affect the worsening of hydronephrosis.
As for surgical intervention, it is necessary to consult a urologist.

Reply Date: 2004/08/10

More Info

Delayed surgery for kidney hydronephrosis, particularly when caused by ureteral narrowing, can have significant implications for kidney function and overall health. In your case, the delay in surgery until mid-September raises several concerns, especially considering that you already have a 20% reduction in kidney function.

Hydronephrosis occurs when urine cannot properly drain from the kidney to the bladder due to an obstruction, leading to swelling of the kidney. The underlying cause in your situation is a narrowed ureter, which can result from various factors, including congenital abnormalities, scarring from previous infections, or external compression. The longer the obstruction persists, the greater the risk of permanent kidney damage, as the increased pressure can lead to renal parenchymal injury.

Given that your kidney function is already compromised, it is crucial to monitor your condition closely during the waiting period. The use of antibiotics for your uterine inflammation should not directly worsen the hydronephrosis; however, it is essential to ensure that any urinary tract infections (UTIs) are managed effectively, as infections can exacerbate kidney damage. If you experience symptoms such as fever, chills, or worsening flank pain, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention.

Regarding the laparoscopic surgery to remove the narrowed portion of the ureter, this is generally a safe and effective procedure. It can help restore normal urine flow and alleviate the hydronephrosis. However, the decision to proceed with surgery should consider the overall health status, including the uterine condition and any potential complications that may arise from concurrent issues.

In summary, while waiting for surgery, it is essential to maintain regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor kidney function and manage any complications that may arise. If your symptoms worsen or if there are signs of infection, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical care. Once the surgery is performed, it is likely to improve your kidney function and overall well-being, provided that there are no other underlying issues affecting your urinary system.

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