Urinvägsstenos

Urinvägsstenos, also known as urinary tract stenosis, refers to a narrowing of any part of the urinary tract. This can include the ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder, the bladder itself, or the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. The narrowing can be congenital, meaning present at birth, or acquired, developing later in life due to various factors.

Causes of acquired stenosis are diverse and can include inflammation, infection, trauma, or surgical interventions. Scar tissue formation is a common mechanism leading to narrowing. In some cases, tumors within or pressing on the urinary tract can also cause stenosis. Conditions like kidney stones can lead to irritation and subsequent scarring, contributing to the development of stenosis.

Symptoms of UVI are dependent on the location and severity of the narrowing. If the obstruction is significant, it can impede urine flow, leading to a buildup of pressure in the kidneys. This can manifest as flank pain, recurrent urinary tract infections, difficulty urinating, a weak urine stream, or even blood in the urine. In severe or prolonged cases, it can lead to kidney damage.

Diagnosis typically involves medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI. Urography, which involves injecting contrast dye into the urinary tract and taking X-rays, can also be used to visualize the narrowing. Cystoscopy, a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the urethra, allows direct visualization of the urinary tract.

Treatment options depend on the cause, location, and severity of the stenosis. Options may include minimally invasive procedures like balloon dilation or stent placement to open the narrowed passage. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove scar tissue and reconstruct the affected part of the urinary tract. Management aims to restore normal urine flow and prevent further complications.