A ureteric stricture is a narrowing of the ureter that obstructs urine flow and, if untreated, can gradually damage the kidney. Most are caused by previous surgery or instrumentation, stones, radiation or scarring. It can be incidentally detected on blood tests or imaging, or patients may have flank pain or recurrent infections.
CONDITIONS
Ureteric Stricture
Common Risk Factors
• Prior surgery or treatment
• Kidney stones
• Radiotherapy
How We Diagnose Ureteric Stricture
• CT urogram
• Nuclear medicine renal scan to assess drainage and kidney function
• Ureteroscopy to exclude malignancy and assess the length and severity of the stricture
How We Treat Ureteric Stricture
• For simple, short strictures (under 2 cm)
• Endoscopic treatment (balloon dilation or laser incision)
• For complex, long, radiation-related or recurrent strictures
• Open or robotic surgical reconstruction
• Long-term stenting if not suitable for reconstruction
• Observation if the kidney is not being affected
