Advances in imaging techniques such as ultrasonography are allowing many birth defects of the kidneys and bladder to be diagnosed at even earlier stages of pregnancy. Ultrasonography can also be used in newborns to detect abnormalities that are not readily apparent.
Surgical procedures to correct these defects are conducted by specially trained pediatric urologic surgeons. When defects are detected while the child is in the womb, surgeons coordinate with obstetricians to diagnose and determine a course of therapy. Many of the abnormalities will be treated soon after birth.