Diagnostic imaging in pediatric hydronephrosis

Modern imaging techniques are an extremely important part of the diagnostic and therapeutic process for both children and adults. In some cases, they are even the key tool in decision-making. However, the special characteristics of pediatric patients should be kept in mind. Examinations and procedures are routine and well-tolerated by adults, but often cannot take place without the presence of an anesthesiologist. Hydronephrosis is often diagnosed in prenatal ultrasound but is an significant socioeconomic problem. The selection of patients who absolutely require surgical intervention is an aspect to which special attention should be paid. In many centers, for children with hydronephrosis, ultrasound and scintigraphic tests play a dominant role in diagnosis and monitoring. So far, however, no unanimously accepted algorithms have been developed for performing imaging tests, one of the basic diagnostic tools in this group.