Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for ureteropelvic junction obstruction. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international 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.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.

When you need ureteropelvic junction obstruction care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.

The ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) is the area where the upper end of the ureter meets the pelvis of the kidney. When this area becomes blocked, the flow of urine from the kidneys to the bladder stops. This type of blockage causes a buildup of fluid in the kidney and if untreated, may lead to kidney damage.

The most common cause of UPJ obstruction is kidney stones—hard, pebble-like pieces that form in one or both kidneys when high levels of certain minerals are present in the urine. Small kidney stones can typically pass through the ureteropelvic junction, but larger stones may become stuck, forming an obstruction. Congenital anatomical abnormalities in the UPJ may also cause a blockage, as well as scar tissue in this area.

Symptoms of a kidney stone blockage in the UPJ can include:

• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain in the back, side or abdomen
• Pain when urinating
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Blood tests and urinalysis can detect the presence of kidney stones. Imaging tests, including ultrasounds, abdominal X-rays and computed tomography (CT) scans, are used to capture images of the UPJ and identify the size and location of any kidney stones. Additional tests may be conducted to determine the underlying causes of kidney stones and help prevent recurrent obstructions.

A UPJ obstruction caused by a kidney stone may resolve on its own if the stone can eventually pass through the junction. When the kidney stone is too large to pass on its own, additional treatments may be required, including:

• Therapies to dissolve or break the stone into small pieces, allowing it to pass through the UPJ
• Surgery to remove the kidney stone(s) and prevent further damage to the kidney