posterior urethral valves
Also written as: PUV — posterior urethral valves
Congenital obstructive tissue folds in the male posterior urethra causing bladder outlet obstruction.
Full Definition
Posterior urethral valves (PUV) are congenital membranous obstructions in the posterior urethra of males that can cause severe bladder outlet obstruction and subsequent upper urinary tract damage. These abnormal tissue folds, typically classified into three types (with Type I being most common), can lead to bladder dysfunction, vesicoureteral reflux, renal dysplasia, and chronic kidney disease if untreated. Diagnosis is often made prenatally or in infancy, with treatment involving endoscopic valve ablation. Long-term management focuses on preserving renal function and managing potential complications including bladder dysfunction.
Usage
Usage note: Always use plural form 'valves' even when referring to a single anatomical variant.
In Context
- "Posterior urethral valves were diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound showing severe oligohydramnios." — prenatal consultation
- "The infant underwent endoscopic PUV ablation to relieve bladder outlet obstruction." — operative note