 Ureteral Reconstruction
|
|
 |
|
The ureter is the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Sometimes the ureter can be damaged due to a blockage or as a result of urine backing up into the kidney (reflux). Ureteral reconstruction is a surgical procedure that removes the blockage or the cause of reflux.
|
|
|
|
|
|
The symptoms of a ureteral blockage include a urinary tract infection, blood in the urine, and pain. Reflux can cause symptoms that include fever, burning sensation with urination, and back or stomach pain.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ureteral blockage or reflux is diagnosed with a CT scan, X-ray, or additional radiologic test called a VCUG (voiding cystourethrography).
|
|
|
|
|
|
Surgery (ureteral reconstruction) is performed to remove blockages in the ureter and allow urine to flow properly. Reflux is treated by adding more muscle (taken from the bladder) around the ureter to prevent urine from traveling back up and damaging the kidney. At Children's Hospital Boston, we perform robotic surgery for ureteral reconstrution.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Most children who have ureteral reconstructions achieve normal urinary function.
|
|
|
