Giant hydronephrosis in children

Giant hydronephrosis in children, and particularly in infants, is frequently responsible for abdominal masses. High dose intravenous urography has proved very useful in studying the degree of pyelocalyceal dilatation, as well as the amount of residual renal parenchyma and the possible recovery of these kidneys. Reparative surgery, rather than primary nephrectomy, should always be considered. Renal transplantation may save those with giant bilateral hydronephrosis who appear now to be beyond the possibility of surgical repair.