Inadequate decompression of the upper tracts using a Foley catheter in the valve bladder.

Catheter drainage has been advocated for initial diversion in children who present with posterior urethral valves and concomitant urinary tract infection or metabolic derangement. We report a case in which a well placed and functioning Foley catheter provided inadequate upper tract decompression. However, excellent upper tract decompression was accomplished when the catheter was replaced with a feeding tube. It appears that physiological upper tract obstruction was promoted by the Foley catheter, which may have been a manifestation of the valve bladder syndrome.