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Ureteral Stricture

Narrowing of the ureter causing obstruction

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Ureteral Stricture?

Ureteral stricture is a localized or segmental narrowing of the ureter caused by scarring, ischemia, or extrinsic compression.

Common causes include prior ureteroscopy, impacted stones, pelvic surgery, radiotherapy, gynecologic procedures, and ureteral injury.

Diagnosis uses CT urography, retrograde pyelography, antegrade nephrostogram, and ureteroscopy with biopsy when malignancy is suspected.

Untreated strictures cause hydronephrosis, recurrent infections, stone formation, and progressive renal function loss.

Symptoms

Flank pain, often dull and persistent on the affected side
Recurrent urinary tract infections or pyelonephritis
Hematuria, especially with intermittent obstruction
Decreased urine output if bilateral or solitary kidney involved
Nausea and vomiting during acute exacerbations
Asymptomatic hydronephrosis discovered incidentally on imaging

Risk Factors

Prior ureteroscopy or impacted ureteral stone
Pelvic or gynecologic surgery (especially hysterectomy)
Pelvic radiotherapy for cervical, prostate, or rectal cancer
Retroperitoneal fibrosis or endometriosis
Iatrogenic injury during open or laparoscopic surgery
Recurrent or chronic urinary infections

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent flank pain with imaging showing hydronephrosis
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections after ureteroscopy or pelvic surgery
  • Rising creatinine with no other explanation
  • Ongoing pain or fever despite ureteral stent placement
  • Hematuria with imaging suggestive of ureteral mass
  • Concern for malignant stricture in cancer patients

Treatment Methods

01
Endoscopic balloon dilation for short, low-grade strictures
02
Holmium laser endoureterotomy for selected strictures
03
Long-term ureteral stenting in poor surgical candidates
04
Open or robotic ureteroureterostomy for short-segment strictures
05
Boari flap or psoas hitch for distal ureteral reconstruction
06
Ileal interposition or autotransplantation for long-segment strictures

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.