Surgical management of renal tract problems

The majority of renal tract problems in childhood are congenital in origin with an overall incidence of 2–4 per 1000 live births. Some anomalies may occur in isolation e.g. posterior urethral valves; whilst others may be part of a more complex spectrum of anomalies. Prenatal screening has highlighted an increasing number of children with renal tract anomalies which may require paediatric specialist involvement in the immediate postnatal period. Most congenital renal tract problems are managed by paediatric urologists and paediatric surgeons with a special interest in urology. However, it is important that paediatricians have an understanding of optimal management. The aim of this review is to highlight the most common renal tract disorders of childhood and to discuss their aetiology, clinical presentation, investigation and surgical management.