What is Paediatric Urology?

Paediatric urology is a subspecialty of urology that focuses on diagnosing and treating urinary and genital conditions in children, from birth through adolescence. Children require specialised care because their bodies are still developing, and many urological conditions present differently than they do in adults.

Paediatric urologists use child-friendly techniques and equipment and work closely with families to manage both common and complex conditions affecting the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and genital organs.

Dr Avikar Singh offers expert paediatric urology care at Gateway Hospital Umhlanga, supporting families across Durban.

Common Conditions Treated

• Undescended testicles: When one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum
• Hypospadias: A condition where the urethral opening is not located at the tip of the penis
• Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis): Involuntary urination during sleep
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Often recurring or associated with underlying problems
• Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR): Backward flow of urine from the bladder to the kidneys
• Posterior urethral valves: A blockage in the urethra that can affect kidney development
• Hydronephrosis: Swelling of the kidneys due to fluid buildup
• Congenital anomalies: Structural abnormalities present at birth

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Diagnosis may involve:

• Physical examination
• Urine and blood tests
• Ultrasound or other imaging scans
• Specialised tests such as voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG)

Early identification is crucial, particularly in conditions that may affect kidney function or future fertility.

Treatment Options

• Medical management: Antibiotics, hormonal therapy, or bladder training
• Minimally invasive procedures: For conditions like ureteric reflux or obstructive uropathy
• Surgical correction: For structural abnormalities such as hypospadias or undescended testes