Patient's question:
My wife is already 36 weeks pregnant. The fetus has been normal so far. During the ultrasound examination yesterday, it was found that the right kidney of the fetus has hydronephrosis (1.0 cm) and the left kidney is fused. I feel very panicked and want to know what is going on. Will this affect the growth and development of the fetus? How can this be completely resolved?Doctor's answer:
In this case, further consideration should be given to performing a fetal MRI. One centimeter is the critical threshold, and if it does not decrease further, it is generally still possible for the body to absorb it on its own. If the MRI examination reveals no significant issues, it may be possible to focus on early pregnancy, as it may also gradually absorb after birth. However, if the MRI examination shows kidney hydronephrosis, it would be necessary to give serious consideration, as there may be a risk of ureteral stenosis, which could require surgery after birth.