Posterior Urethral Valves: Prenatal, Neonatal, and Long-Term Management

A posterior urethral valve (PUV) is a membranous fold within the lumen of the posterior urethra that causes functional obstruction of the urine outflow. It is a common cause of obstructive uropathy in boys during the neonatal period. The disorder varies in its severity; in extreme cases, PUVs can be incompatible with postnatal life while other patients can suffer from renal and respiratory failure associated with oligohydramnios. Milder cases can present later in life with urinary incontinence and other urinary symptoms. The management of patients with PUVs remains a clinical challenge and includes endoscopic surgical resection of the urethral valve and follow-up during early infancy and adulthood to avoid progressive bladder dysfunction and monitor for chronic renal disease. This review will address the management of PUVs during the prenatal period, the neonatal period, and throughout the entire life of the patient.