Vesicoureteral Reflux

Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a condition in which urine backs up from the bladder into the ureters - the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder. In severe cases, this congenital condition causes urine to back up into the kidneys.

Vesicoureteral reflux is twice as common in girls as boys and may be present in one or both ureters. The condition is caused when the tunnel created by the ureter entering the bladder is not long enough. Consequently, the mechanisms that control urine flow from the ureter into the bladder don't work properly, allowing urine to back up. In about 20 percent of these cases, the condition corrects itself as the child grows and the ureter grows longer.

Serious reflux, if left untreated, can result in urinary tract infections that lead to permanent kidney damage and loss of function. In most cases, the child will outgrow the reflux; however, the child needs to be on antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent urinary infection. If using antibiotics to prevent infection doesn't work, surgery may be necessary.

Should your child require surgery, a skilled team of urologists, anesthesiologists, nurses and other specialists who have been trained to work with the special needs of developing children will care for your child. We also recognize the important role parents have on our team.

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Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Children's Hospital.
Last updated May 8, 2007