Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to remove the blockage. You may need to stay in a hospital for a short while.

Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to treat urinary tract infection
• Catheterization-- the placement of a tube into the body to drain urine (See: Urinary catheters)
• Dialysis if kidney failure occurs
• Laser or heat therapy to shrink the prostate if the problem is due to an enlarged prostate
• Surgery such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP)
• Other types of surgery for disorders causing blockage of the urethra or bladder neck

Expectations (prognosis):

Bilateral obstructive uropathy may be reversible if the blockage is corrected before kidney failure develops.

Chronic kidney failure leads to long-term kidney damage that can be life threatening.

Patients with a chronic blockage are at a higher risk for complications following initial catheter placement. During the first few days following correction of the obstruction, the kidneys may be unable to concentrate urine. As a result, your body removes large amounts of urine that haven't been properly processed. This is called post-obstructive diuresis. It can be a life-threatening condition. Close monitoring is required.

If the obstruction was caused by cancer, the ultimate outcome depends on the disease severity and your response to treatment.

Complications:

• Chronic kidney failure
• Complications due to long-term catheter use
• Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infection
• Long-term incontinence or urinary retention
• Formation of uretal or kidney stones

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if decreased urine output or other symptoms of chronic bilateral obstructive uropathy develop.