Major Ureter Reconstruction

A ureter is a channel that connects the kidney to the bladder. These muscular tubes force urine down away from the kidneys and into the bladder. If the ureters are damaged during surgery or trauma, they may need major reconstruction. These can include:

  • Gynecological surgery
  • Colorectal surgery 
  • Endoscopic surgery for kidney stones
  • Benign fibroids
  • Cancerous tumors
  • Cancer treatments like pelvic radiation

Surgical Reconstruction Methods 

Ureter Reimplant

The ureters are repositioned to improve flow or correct issues causes by anatomy.

Psoas Hitch Surgery

The bladder is stretched toward the kidney and set in place by connecting it to the psoas muscle. 

Boari Flap Surgery

A portion of the bladder wall is cut and sewn into a tube to bridge the missing segment of ureter.

Ureter Patch or Interposition with the Appendix

The appendix is used as a replacement for the ureter. 

Ileal Ureter

A channel is created using a portion of the small bowel (ileum) connecting the kidneys to the abdomen to collect urine in an external pouch.

End-to-End Repair

Two cut ends of the damaged ureter are sewn together.