advanced Kidney Treatment

Pyeloplasty Surgery for UPJ Blockage

Pyeloplasty surgery is an advanced procedure to treat ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction. Our expert urologists use state-of-the-art techniques, including robotic and laparoscopic approaches, to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients.

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What is Pyeloplasty?

Pyeloplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove a blockage in the ureter—the tubes that carry urine from the kidney to the bladder. This blockage, known as ureteropelvic junction or “UPJ” obstruction, can cause urine to build up in the kidney, leading to pain, kidney stones, and potential kidney damage.

After the blockage is removed during pyeloplasty surgery, the ureter is reconnected to the kidney and a stent is placed to allow healing and proper drainage of urine from the kidney.

A pyeloplasty procedure:

Removes blockage between kidney and ureter
Reconnects ureter to kidney
Places a stent to ensure proper healing and drainage

What Does Pyeloplasty Treat?

UPJ obstruction can occur in both children and adults. While many people are born with a predisposition to this condition, it can also develop over time due to:

Physical trauma
Body growth
Scar tissue formation
Ureteral kinks or valves
Crossing blood vessels (in about 50% of adult cases)

In nearly half of the adult cases, a UPJ obstruction is caused by an extra blood vessel, usually an artery that supplies the lower part of the kidney. As the individual ages, the vessel gets bigger. Since the blood vessel will typically lie over the ureter, it can cause obstruction. This is called a “crossing vessel.”

Common Symptoms of UPJ Obstruction

In some patients, there may not be any noticeable symptoms of UPJ obstruction. It’s important to have regular urology appointments to catch certain conditions early and minimize the potential for complications.

If there are symptoms present, you might experience:

Back or flank pain
Bloody urine (hematuria)
Abdominal mass or a lump in your abdomen
Kidney infections
Urinary tract infections (usually with fever)
Vomiting

If you have symptoms of UPJ obstruction or have been recommended for pyeloplasty surgery, don't wait. Contact Z Urology today to schedule a consultation with our expert team. We'll work with you to determine the best treatment approach for your unique situation.

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Types of Pyeloplasty Surgery

The traditional treatment for UPJ obstruction was open pyeloplasty which involved an open surgery. In recent years, however, laparoscopic pyeloplasty has developed as a preferred alternative.

Open Pyeloplasty: The traditional approach involves a larger incision and open surgery.
Laparoscopic Pyeloplasty: A minimally invasive technique using small incisions and specialized tools.
Robotic Pyeloplasty: An advanced, minimally invasive approach using the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System for enhanced precision and control.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Pyeloplasty

Z Urology surgeons offer minimally invasive pyeloplasty using the da Vinci system and laparoscopic methods.

With a da Vinci system, your surgeon sits at a console next to the patient and operates using tiny, fully wristed instruments with advanced robotic-assisted technologies.

A camera provides a high-definition, 3D magnified view inside the body. The da Vinci system translates every hand movement your surgeon makes in real time to bend and rotate the instruments with precision.

Whether performed with the da Vinci system or through laparoscopy, the minimally invasive pyeloplasty has several benefits:

Significantly less postoperative pain
Shorter hospital stays
Quicker return to normal activities
Improved cosmetic results
High success rate

Our doctors at Z Urology are here to talk you through every option and ensure you feel comfortable and prepared for this surgery. With advanced technology available today, outcomes are optimal and the procedure is typically safe.

Recovery After Pyeloplasty

After a pyeloplasty, most people can return to normal activities after 2-4 weeks. You may find that the ureteric stent (the lower end of which sits in the bladder) causes some pain or discomfort when you pass urine and you may see blood in the urine as a result of the stent. The stent is usually removed in-office within 4-6 weeks. We use a small camera to remove it under local anesthesia.

If you have any concerns or questions during recovery, contact the Z Urology office for assistance.

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Patient Feedback for Z Urology

Our patients are the reason we strive for exceptional urological care and treatment! Here’s what some of our South Florida patients are saying about their experience at our clinics.

I have recommended many people to this office and each one has thanked me. On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the best), Dr. Z and his staff are a 12.
– Alex S.
The wait was not long. I was greeted by a friendly nurse who took my sonogram of the kidneys and bladder. The doctor came in after a short time. Dr. Hollowell has a gentle voice and great bedside manner. He is very informative about my issues and I left feeling relieved and hopeful for future visits. The receptionists were also helpful and friendly. I recommend this office. Just wish it was closer to home.
– Allison T.
"I found Doctor Varghese through my insurance provider network and read reviews in Healthgrades. Dr. Varghese is terrific. She explains things so they are easy to understand. I feel she is on top of several medical problems I’m having. I had a cystoscopy and was offered nitric oxide (mild gas). It was perfect. I have had the procedure in the past but it was the most uncomfortable feeling I ever experienced. Not this time. Doctor Varghese is an excellent listener and remembers what I tell her from the previous visits.

Let me sum up my feelings about being under Dr. Varghese's care. I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL [to see her].”
– Jeffery P.
“I've been coming here for cancer for 10 years and I've had nothing but good visits every time. Staff is friendly and the doctors and PA'S are great. Dr. Z takes the time to ask questions and explain everything. He is amazing.”

– Bill S.
“El Dr. Pedro Espino Grosso es un médico especialista en Urología es también especialista en entender, comprender y atender la preocupación de su paciente. Gracias por su profesionalismo como para todo el staff y las enfermeras por su amable y compasivo trato. Por favor no cambien!”
– Ana L.
I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead, I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL to visit Z Urology!
– Jeffery P.
“Dr. Mini Varghese of Z Urology is without a doubt the best Urologist in South Florida. She not only takes care of my father but now she's taking care of all my needs too. The team she has behind her at Z Urology is amazing, they go up and beyond their call of duty. A big shoutout to Z Urology in Pompano Beach, FL, thanks for keeping the pipes flowing...you gals are the Best!!!! Thanks Dr. Varghese.”
– Brent S.
“Dr. Brar was awesome! He was very thorough with everything to ensure we got to the bottom of my issue! I felt like he cared and listened. I will be going back. The office was busy and some people were waiting a while but I was seen fairly quickly, I did fill out all the paperwork ahead of time so not sure if that helped! The person who helped me at the front desk was great and helped me with all my questions.”
– Britney C.
Everyone seemed nice, friendly and welcoming. I was also impressed with the examination and the way the staff treated me. Dr. Mike took the time with me to listen and advise me as to what treatment plan might be needed.
– Jimmy Z.
Great specialist, hard to find a more personable and efficient medical office anywhere else. I was welcome from the moment I came in, everyone was very friendly and all my questions and needs were expertly attended to. Never been to a urologist so this was new to me, but I definitely felt comfortable and heard. It was a drive from neighboring Miami but well worth it. Highly recommend. Thanks, Dr. Z!
– Jose T.
Thank you Dr. Michael Zahalsky for the surgery, you changed my life completely. I'm so happy, now no more pain and I'm feeling better than ever, thanks again for the great staff in your office. Very professional. Felt like family.
– Frank C.
They are very friendly. My surgeon went through the same procedure and read my mind of all my concerns. He reassured me everything would be okay and life would go on.
– Jeremy C.
Three words: Kind, Caring and Compassionate! This office is the best of the best. The front desk employees are super friendly and the doctors are professional and spoke to me in a down-to-earth & making it easier for me to understand what was going on. I am able to make informed decisions with the material that was provided to me.
– A.D.Z.
I had a great first visit with Dr. Z and his staff. I was seen within a reasonable amount of time. Dr. Z was personable and, after hearing my history and doing a targeted physical exam, directed his staff to perform ultrasound and bladder testing which was done efficiently and with discretion. Dr. Z then came in and spent a good amount of time explaining a clinical treatment plan. I left feeling I was in the hands of a total professional office from the top down.
– Harvey A.
Z urology is the best and I have to say Dr. Zahalsky is extremely knowledgeable and such a humble and pleasant human being. I always feel welcome at Z Urology.
– Kimaro W.

In Network with Most Insurance Plans

Our clinic accepts most major insurance plans and offers flexible financing options to ensure you receive the care you need. Our team will work with you to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Questions about insurance coverage?

Contact our office at (954) 714-8200. Additionally, we encourage you to call your insurance provider to confirm what your coverage includes.

Schedule a Consultation

At Z Urology, we're committed to providing innovative, compassionate care for all your urological needs. Contact us to discuss UPJ obstruction and our advanced pyeloplasty procedures to support your kidney health.

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or Call (954) 714-8200