Ureterocele causing anhydramnios successfully treated with percutaneous decompression

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Ureteroceles are congenital cystic dilatations of the submucosal segment of the distal ureter. We present a case of an intravesical ureterocele causing anhydramnios at 31 weeks' gestation. CASE: A primiparous woman near 20 weeks' gestation had ultrasound evidence of a fetal duplicated right collecting system. At 31 weeks, an intravesical ureterocele was seen along with bilateral hydroureteronephrosis and anhydramnios. A single percutaneous needle decompression of the bladder and ureterocele successfully restored amniotic fluid volume. CONCLUSION: Follow-up ultrasounds are indicated when either a duplicated renal collecting system or a ureterocele is identified. In utero treatment is indicated only when amniotic fluid is compromised. Needle decompression should be first-line treatment, with more invasive methods reserved for failures of decompression. © 2002 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.