Ureteral stricture disease is a structural narrowing or scarring along the length of the ureter—the specialized muscular tube that funnels urine from the kidney down to the bladder. This scarring can develop due to past trauma, deep inflammation, or as an acquired complication from previous surgeries like kidney stone removals, radiation therapy, or abdominal operations. The rigid scar tissue restricts the free flow of urine, creating a retrograde backup of fluid that places the kidney under high pressure.

Primary Symptoms

• Flank Discomfort: Persistent or intermittent aching pain in the lower back or side of the abdomen.

• Decline in Kidney Capacity: Silent, progressive loss of individual kidney function due to long-term high-pressure fluid retention.

• Recurrent Infections: Urinary track infections accompanied by flank soreness or systemic fevers.

Diagnostic Approach

1. CT Urogram: A high-definition contrast scan that provides a clear, three-dimensional roadmap of the exact location, length, and severity of the ureteral narrowing.

2. Retrograde Pyelogram: A specialized imaging procedure performed under brief sedation where contrast fluid is introduced from below, mapping the lower boundary of the stricture.

Recommended Surgical & Treatment Pathways

Dedicated Subspecialty Center: Robotic Ureteral Reconstruction & Upper Tract Care Hub →

Surgical Reconstruction: Ureteroplasty (Ureteral Stricture Repair) — Minimally invasive robotic repair including buccal mucosa onlay ureteroplasty.

Surgical Reconstruction: Ureteral Reimplantation — Robotic Boari flap and psoas hitch reconstruction for distal ureteral loss.

Diagnostic Imaging & Labs: CT Abdomen & Pelvis Results Explained →

Diagnostic Imaging & Labs: Kidney, Bladder & Prostate Ultrasound Results →