Treatment:

Simple, uncomplicated reflux (called primary reflux) less than grade III can be treated by the following:

• Antibiotics
• Careful watching
• Repeated urine cultures
• Yearly ultrasound of the kidneys

More severe reflux may require surgery, such as the following:

• Ureteral reimplantation
• Reconstructive repair

Surgery to place the ureter(s) back into the bladder can be done to stop reflux nephropathy. This surgery results in less frequent and less severe urinary tract infections.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. Most cases of reflux nephropathy get better on their own. However, the damage to the kidney may be permanent. If only one kidney is involved, the other kidney may continue to function.

Reflux nephropathy may cause kidney failure in children and young adults.

Complications:

• Blockage of the ureter after surgery
• Chronic or repeat urinary tract infections
• Chronic renal failure if both kidneys are involved (can progress to end-stage kidney disease)
• Kidney infection
• High blood pressure
• Nephrotic syndrome
• Permanent damage to one or both kidneys
• Persistent reflux
• Scarring of the kidneys

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of reflux nephropathy, or if you have decreased urine output or other new symptoms.