The Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, a kidney care specialist in Chennai, performed a keyhole surgery on a 3-month-old Bangladeshi infant with kidney blockage. The baby's right kidney had swollen, resulting in a decline in organ function.

The pediatric team at the institute identified the issue and recommended a procedure called Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty to ensure the infant's complete recovery. Hydronephrosis, a condition characterized by kidney swelling due to urine stagnation, was diagnosed in the baby, which is commonly detected during prenatal scanning but can develop into a serious blockage jeopardizing kidney function.

Before birth, the parents of the infant were already aware of the swelling in the right fetal kidney. However, the severity of the condition was only realized after further tests in Bangladesh. The kidney's position near the bladder caused the entire anatomy to twist on its axis, leading to urine stagnation and a 50% reduction in kidney function.

Under the guidance of Dr. Ramesh Babu, a pediatric urologist at the institute, the medical team evaluated the infant's condition and used Retrograde Pyelography (RGP) to determine the level of blockage. They then performed a laparoscopic pyeloplasty using 3mm instruments to clear the blockage. The baby made a full recovery within two days and was discharged on the third day.

Dr Ramesh Babu, Pediatric Urologist at Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, Chennai, commented-

“Performing minimally invasive surgery on an infant with a pelvic malrotated kidney and pelvic ureteric junction obstruction poses challenges. Despite having robotic surgery capabilities at the institute, we chose the laparoscopic approach due to the infant’s small abdomen size. Immediate endoscopic treatment is crucial in cases where both kidneys are swollen, indicating a severe valve blockage below the bladder. Reflux, a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder to the kidneys, may require laparoscopic or robotic reimplantation. Milder forms of reflux can be treated with endoscopic injection.”

Dr Venkat Subramanian, Executive Director of Asian Institute of Nephrology and Urology, Chennai, praised the team, stating-

“I congratulate the team on their surgery and the baby’s speedy recovery. Considering the infant’s weight and the need for precision, this achievement is impressive. The institute’s team of experts, equipped with advanced robotic technology and a range of renal health procedures, consistently achieves progress and milestones through surgeries for patients from around the world. We extend our wishes to the baby’s parents and hope for their son’s continued good health and a bright future.”

Resource- https://www.healthcareradius.in/features/surgery/bangladeshi-infants-kidney-blockage-treated-at-ainu