Ureterotomy

Where a congenital / acquired narrowing in the ureteric opening occurs. This procedure is used to open the ureter and ease the urine flow. It can cause vesico-ureteric reflux.

Why is it done?

• Congenital narrowing of the ureteric opening in the bladder as per a Ureterocoele.
• Previous bladder surgery where the ureteric orifice was involved: ie Bladder tumour resection.
• Where conservative measures have failed: ie Stenting, Dilatation etc.
• To prevent renal function deterioration.
• Stenting or nephrostomy placement would have been done in the acute state to relief an obstructed and infected system.

How is it done?

• Patients will receive a general anaesthesia.
• Prophylactic antibiotics is given.
• The correct kidney is identified and marked while you are awake.
• This will be an endoscopic procedure.
• A Cystoscopy will be done with placement of ureteric guidewire.
• Laser will be used to cut the stricture open.
• The alternative is using an endoscopic scissors (when available).
• An Ureteric stent is left with an Indwelling Urethral catheter.
• An ureteric stent is placed for 6 weeks and an indwelling catheter overnight.

What next?

• You may be in hospital for 1-2 days.
• You may have continuous intravenous antibiotics on board.
• You may have persistent hematuria.
• The stent may be uncomfortable with pain radiating to your affected kidney every time you urinate.
• Your stent will be removed on a separate occasion in 6 weeks with aFlexible cystoscopy under Local Anaesthesia.
• A ward prescription may be issued on your discharge, for your own collection at any pharmacy.
• A follow-up appointment will be scheduled for 6 weeks to review your symptoms.
• A further follow-up may be arranged with a CT IVP to check on the end result of the ureter.
• Don’t hesitate to ask Jo if you have any queries.
• DON’T SUFFER IN SILENCE, OR YOU WILL SUFFER ALONE!

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Ureterotomy