Understanding Bilateral Hydronephrosis: Risk Factors and Causes

Bilateral hydronephrosis occurs when the pelvis and urine-collecting structures of the kidneys become distended or enlarged. It causes an inability of urine to drain from the kidneys to the bladder.

Blood

• Risk factors for bilateral hydronephrosis include blood-clotting disorders. Also called hypercoagulation or thrombophilia, these disorders are dangerous because they cause your blood to clot too much.

Pelvis

• Bilateral hydronephrosis risk factors also include having had pelvic surgery and having cancer in the pelvic area.

Urinary

• Recurrent urinary tract infections as well as urinary system defects which were present at birth are risk factors for developing bilateral hydronephrosis.

Other Risks

• Pregnancy, an enlarged prostate, and abnormal bladder function in which the bladder empties too often, at the wrong time, or not enough are risk factors for developing bilateral hydronephrosis.

Treatment

• Bilateral hydronephrosis treatment include using a Foley catheter to stop obstruction, using tubes to drain the bladder or relieve pressure, or using stents to help urine flow from kidneys to bladder.