High pressure pyelocalyceal reflux. Case presentation.

In the absence of vesicoureteral reflux or urinary tract obstruction, conservative management is advocated for children with recurrent urinary tract infection. Conventional radiographic studies and static nuclear imaging techniques, however, may fail to reveal a subclinical but significant structural or functional abnormality. Recurrent breakthrough infections during appropriate medical treatment and high pressure pyelocalyceal reflux may justify a more aggressive therapeutic approach. We propose that a pressure perfusion study with fluoroscopy and continuous pressure monitoring be performed preoperatively to help select those children in whom surgery is an acceptable alternative.