Lower urinary tract obstruction in the fetus and neonate

Abstract

This article summarizes the most recent literature regarding congenital lower urinary tract obstruction in the fetus and newborn. Lower urinary tract obstruction is a heterogeneous group of rare diagnoses that have significant potential for in utero mortality and long-term morbidity in survivors. The diagnosis and management of the most common causes are reviewed. In addition, the current state of prenatal intervention for congenital lower urinary tract obstruction is discussed.

Keywords: Fetal intervention; Posterior urethral valves; Prenatal diagnosis; Prenatal ultrasonography; Prune-belly syndrome; Urethral obstruction.