Why Washington University for Ureteropelvic Junction (UPJ) Obstruction

Uteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is a blockage in the upper end of the ureter at the point where the ureter joins the renal pelvis — the ureteropelvic junction (UPJ). This condition can result in pain in one side of the body between the upper abdomen and the back or a urinary tract infection. UPJ is generally a congenital condition (present from birth), and in the most severe cases, requires surgery early in life. However, Washington University urologic surgeons are seeing more cases in people at a later stage of life, most frequently in those between the ages of 15 and 30.

Washington University urologists at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital offer minimally invasive treatments for UPJ obstruction including endoscopic treatments and robotic pyeloplasty (surgical repair of the urinary blockage). They serve as a regional center for UPJ treatment.

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