What is vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)?
VUR is a condition in which urine moves backwards from the bladder into the kidney. VUR is most often looked for in the setting of a kidney infection being diagnosed in a child. It is detected with a test called the voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). This study involves putting a contrast material using a catheter into the urinary bladder. The catheter is then removed and the child is asked to urinate while x-rays are being taken. Children who have VUR have high risk of developing kidney infections. Most children with VUR, especially low grades of VUR improve on their own. Preventative antibiotic treatment is strongly recommended for all patients with VUR detected in the setting of a kdiney infection. Once you have documented resolution of VUR, medications may be safely discontinued. Some children with reflux may be candidates for surgical correction, which corrects the reflux in more than 95% of cases.
