What is vesicoureteral reflux?
Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is the abnormal, reversed flow of urine from the bladder into the ureters or kidneys. It results from an abnormal valve system at the ureterovesicular (ureter-bladder) junction. It can cause chronic inflammation and kidney failure. Reflux is classified into grades I to IV, based on the abnormalities caused on the renal tissue. VUR in children is most often the consequence of an immature bladder or of nervous impairment of the bladder. Few traditional treatments are available – medication, strengthening the vesicoureteral tube with injections of various substances, or surgically. If VUR is not treated it can eventually lead to kidney failure.
Vesicoureteral reflux in patients with chronic kidney failure
Reflux nephropathy is the cause of 10-30% of chronic kidney failure.
2-8% of these patients are candidates for renal transplantation. These patients, treated with immunosuppression, are at risk of urinary infection and VUR in their own kidney. It is highly recommended that the vesicoureteral reflux should be treated prior to kidney transplantation.
Vesicoureteral reflux is detected as a cause of kidney failure in 2% to 8% of patients with chronic renal failure who are candidates for renal transplantation.