Problem of fused kidneys - Our observations

Genitourinary tract tops the list of developmental anomalies – 30-40% of malformed individuals. These developmental anomalies comprise a diversity of abnormalities ranging from complete absence to aberrant location, orientation, shape, form, fusion, number and vascular attachments. Amongst these wide range of anomalies, fusion anomalies are not uncommon. Horseshoe kidney is the commonest fusion anomaly which accounts for about 0.25% of the population. Unilateral fused kidney with inferior ectopia is the next most common fusion anomaly with an incidence of 1:1000. The other fusion anomalies are Sigmoid or S – shaped kidney, Lump kidney, L shaped kidney, Disc or doughnut kidney and Unilateral fused kidney with superior ectopia. These fusion anomalies are clinically important because they are malrotated, abnormally placed with anomalous blood supply. They are predisposed to various complications like hydronephrosis, infection, urolithiasis and neoplasm. This is a study of 10 patients who presented with fusion anomalies, in the department of Osmania Hospital, Afzalgunj during the period of 2013-2015. The clinical presentations, modalities of arriving at diagnosis, associated complications and the management are discussed.