Fetal Kidney Abnormality & LUTO Care in the UAE
Fetal kidney abnormalities in the UAE encompass conditions ranging from mild renal pelvis dilation (hydronephrosis) to Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction (LUTO). Managed at Mediclinic MFM Units (Abu Dhabi & Al Ain Hubs), our specialists evaluate amniotic fluid volume, perform fetal bladder taps, and coordinate in-utero vesico-amniotic shunt placements when indicated to preserve lung and kidney function.
Who This Page is For
Customized clinical pathways and insights to support our patients and referring medical partners.
Pregnant Patient
Mothers whose scans show fetal hydronephrosis, multicystic dysplastic kidneys (MCDK), or a severely distended fetal bladder.
Referring Doctor
Obstetricians referring cases of urinary tract obstruction or unexplained oligohydramnios for subspecialist assessment.
Abnormal Screening
Mothers seeking confirmation of fetal renal abnormalities and amniotic fluid volume quantification.
Second Opinion
Parents wanting to discuss prognosis, renal function testing, and the safety of bladder shunt placements.
When to see MFM
What we do
What happens during the visit
A comprehensive diagnostic scan evaluating renal parenchyma, bladder wall thickness, and fluid levels.
Discussion of the prognosis, renal function test options, and genetic testing.
If indicated for LUTO, performing vesicocentesis or vesico-amniotic shunt placement under direct ultrasound guidance.
Regular surveillance scans to monitor shunt position, bladder emptying, and fluid volume.
When urgent referral is needed
- LUTO with severe oligohydramnios before 24 weeks requires urgent evaluation, as it poses a critical risk of lung underdevelopment (pulmonary hypoplasia).
- Signs of maternal labor, fluid leak, or bleeding.
Where the service is available
Available across Mediclinic MFM hubs in Abu Dhabi (Airport Road Hospital) and Al Ain (Al Jowhara Hospital), with referral pathways coordinating care for patients nationwide.
Why Fetus.ae / Mediclinic MFM
Specialists Available
Fellowship-trained, internationally recognized consultants offering evidence-based precision care.
Dr. Ali Al-Ibrahim
Head of Unit, Consultant Maternal Fetal MedicineConsultant in Maternal-Fetal Medicine in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi with more than 25 years of experience, University of Toronto fellowship training, and Arab and Saudi Board certification in OBGYN.
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Dr. Leanne Bricker MB.BCh FRCOG
Consultant in Fetal & Maternal MedicineOver three decades of clinical excellence, serving as Chair of Fetal Medicine at Corniche Hospital from 2014-2025.
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Dr. Soha Tohamy Said MB BCH MRCPI, FRCOG
Consultant Obstetrics and Gynecology, Consultant Maternal Fetal MedicineFormer Department Chair of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Corniche Hospital with immense experience leading tertiary maternity services.
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Dr. Najwa Mohamed El Fky
Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine SpecialistConsultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist and Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist with extensive experience in high-risk obstetrics, prenatal diagnosis, and obstetric ultrasound.
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Dr. Bernard Nasr
Consultant Obstetrics/Gynecology, Maternal Fetal MedicineFrench-trained MFM expert proficient in invasive therapeutic procedures and multiple pregnancy complications.
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Dr. Marija Hadji Lega
Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist, Associate ProfessorInternationally trained specialist with 25+ years of clinical experience, renowned for advanced fetal neurology and cardiology.
View Full ProfileFrequently Asked Questions
Clinical answers directly from our specialists to help prepare you for your appointment.
Lower Urinary Tract Obstruction (LUTO) is a rare fetal condition where a blockage in the baby’s urethra prevents them from emptying their bladder, leading to bladder distension and low amniotic fluid.
Hydronephrosis is the swelling of one or both kidneys, occurring when urine builds up due to a partial blockage or reflux in the urinary tract.
It is a small plastic tube placed through the mother’s abdomen into the fetal bladder, allowing urine to drain into the amniotic cavity, restoring fluid levels.
The fetus breathes amniotic fluid in and out to develop their lungs. Severe fluid loss (oligohydramnios) early in pregnancy causes life-threatening pulmonary hypoplasia.
MCDK is a non-cancerous condition where a kidney fails to develop properly, forming multiple non-functioning cysts. If the other kidney is healthy, the prognosis is excellent.
Getting Here & Access
Our two hubs cover the country: Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital in Abu Dhabi and Mediclinic Al Jowhara Hospital in Al Ain. Patients from Dubai (about 60–75 minutes on the E11), Sharjah, Ajman and the Northern Emirates typically attend the Abu Dhabi hub, while Al Ain and Eastern Region families are seen locally. Referrals are coordinated so travel is minimised and, wherever possible, imaging, counselling and any procedure are grouped into as few visits as possible.
Insurance & Coverage
Across both hubs we work with major UAE insurers including Daman (Thiqa and Enhanced), ADNIC, Nextcare, NAS and other networks. Coverage and pre-authorisation vary by plan and emirate, so our team confirms eligibility and arranges approvals before you travel. Self-pay packages are available nationwide.
Areas We Serve
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Our Maternal Fetal Medicine specialists provide evidence-based assessment, clear counselling, and coordinated care.