Antenatal Hydronephrosis
Access exceptional care for antenatal hydronephrosis at Montefiore Einstein Urology at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore Einstein (CHAM). As a leader in urology, we are an academic-based referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of specialists is passionate about uncovering diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate research-based treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. We are committed to ensuring your child will receive the best patient- and family-centered care in a supportive and nurturing environment.
When you want only the best for your child, turn to our dedicated providers who will develop a highly personalized treatment plan.
Montefiore Einstein offers the following content from Healthwise’s health information library.
What Is Antenatal Hydronephrosis?
Hydronephrosis is the swelling of one or both kidneys resulting from a build-up of urine inside the kidney. When this swelling is detected during pregnancy, the condition is known as antenatal hydronephrosis.
Causes of Antenatal Hydronephrosis
Antenatal hydronephrosis can be caused by a urinary tract obstruction blocking the flow of urine from the kidney or by vesicoureteral reflux, the backflow of urine from the bladder into the kidney. In some cases, there may be no identifiable cause, and the condition resolves on its own. This is called transient hydronephrosis.
Signs & Symptoms of Antenatal Hydronephrosis
There are usually no symptoms of antenatal hydronephrosis during pregnancy but swelling or stretching of the kidney may be visible on an ultrasound.
Diagnosing Antenatal Hydronephrosis
Antenatal hydronephrosis is detected by ultrasound during pregnancy and monitored until birth. If the condition is present after birth, further diagnostic tests may be required to evaluate the severity of the condition, including:
- Renal scan
- Voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG)
Treating Antenatal Hydronephrosis
Most cases of antenatal hydronephrosis resolve on their own and do not require treatment after birth, other than a period of observation to confirm that the condition has resolved. In patients at risk for urinary tract infection (UTI), the urologist may prescribe antibiotics. If the hydronephrosis is caused by obstruction or vesicoureteral reflux, surgery may be recommended to correct the abnormality.