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A ureteral stricture is a narrowing or scarred segment of the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. When this passage becomes blocked, urine cannot drain normally and begins to back up into the kidney. Over time, this can lead to pain, recurrent infections, hydronephrosis, and eventually permanent kidney damage if left untreated.
Strictures can develop after prior surgery, kidney stones, cancer treatments, trauma, or infection, but regardless of the cause, the obstruction places stress on the kidney and increases the risk of long term complications. Because strictures are a structural problem rather than a temporary irritation, they often require advanced surgical expertise to correct.
At The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, our team specializes in complex ureteral reconstruction to restore healthy urine flow and protect kidney function. Many of the procedures we offer are not available at standard centers, allowing us to achieve lasting results even in challenging or recurrent cases.
Ureteral Stricture
What Is a Ureteral Stricture?
Common Symptoms of a Ureteral Stricture
- Flank or abdominal pain
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Blood in the urine (hematuria)
- Fever or chills if infection develops
- Declining kidney function (detected on lab tests)
Causes and Risk Factors
Ureteral strictures may result from:
- Prior surgeries involving the urinary tract
- Radiation therapy for cancers near the pelvis or abdomen
- Kidney stones that scar the ureter lining
- Injury or trauma to the ureter
- Compression for tumors and masses
- Congenital abnormalities present since birth
- Infections that cause inflammation and scarring
Advanced Treatments for Ureteral Strictures
Our surgeons are among the few in the world who perform advanced ureteral reconstruction for complex and recurrent strictures. Treatment plans are tailored to the length, location, and cause of the narrowing. Options include:
Endoscopic Dilation or Incision
Minimally invasive procedures that widen or cut the scar tissue to reopen the ureter. These may offer temporary relief but often do not provide a permanent solution.
Ureteral Reimplantation
The ureter is surgically repositioned to create a new, healthy connection to the bladder that prevents backflow.
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Ureteroureterostomy
The narrowed segment of the ureter is removed, and the two healthy ends are reconnected. This option works well for short strictures.
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Reconstructive Surgery with Grafts or Flaps
In longer or complex strictures, grafts such as buccal mucosa may be used to reconstruct the narrowed segment of ureter.
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Pyeloplasty
In some cases, the ureteral narrowing is near the kidney and requires complex reconstruction to re-establish normal flow from the renal pelvis to the ureter.
Robotic-Assisted Procedures
In most of the above cases, minimally invasive robotic surgery enhances precision, reduces scarring, and speeds recovery.
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In most of the above cases, minimally invasive robotic surgery enhances precision, reduces scarring, and speeds recovery.
Are You a Candidate?
You may be a candidate if:
- You have repeated UTIs or flank pain.
- Imaging shows urine backing up into the kidney.
- Your kidney function has declined due to obstruction.
- Previous treatments for a stricture have failed.
- You have been living with a ureteral stent with chronic exchanges
Many patients come to The Institute after other options have been exhausted, and we often succeed where others cannot. Schedule a consultation to explore your options.
Meet the Team
Our reconstructive urologists are national leaders in treating ureteral strictures, especially complex or recurrent cases that have not responded to standard care. With advanced training in robotic surgery, microsurgical reconstruction, and graft-based ureteral repair, our team provides precise, individualized treatment focused on restoring healthy urine flow and protecting long term kidney function. Patients from across the country trust our specialists for outcomes that last when other approaches have failed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ureteral Strictures
What happens if a ureteral stricture is left untreated?
Ongoing obstruction can cause infections, pain, and permanent kidney damage. Early diagnosis and treatment are important.
How long is recovery after ureteral reconstruction?
Recovery depends on the type of surgery. Many patients leave the hospital within a few days and return to daily activities within weeks.
Will I need a stent after surgery?
Yes, most patients have a temporary stent placed in the ureter to help it heal. This is usually removed a few weeks later.
Will insurance cover my surgery?
In many cases, yes. Visit our insurance information page for more information, or contact our financial coordinators to confirm your coverage.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist at The Institute?
No referral is required. Patients may request an appointment directly. If another doctor referred you, we will collaborate with your care team to ensure seamless communication.
How do I know if The Institute is the right place for me?
Patients travel to us from across the country and around the world because of our rare expertise in pelvic and urologic nerve surgery. If you’ve been struggling without answers, our team can provide a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.