Ureteral Obstruction

Overview

Ureteral obstruction occurs when the flow of urine from the kidney to the bladder is blocked. This can lead to kidney damage if not treated promptly.

Causes

• Kidney or ureteral stones
• Ureteral strictures (scarring)
• Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction
• External compression by tumors or enlarged lymph nodes

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. Options include ureteroscopy, stent placement, balloon dilation, endoscopic incision, or reconstructive surgery (robotic pyeloplasty for UPJ obstruction).