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Ureterocele

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Treatment:

Antibiotics are usually given to prevent further infections until surgery can be done. Ampicillin or Bactrim are commonly used.

The goal of treatment is to get rid of the blockage.  Stents (drains placed in the ureter or in the renal area) may provide short-term relief of symptoms.

Surgical repair of the ureterocele usually cures the condition. Surgery involves making a cut into the ureterocele ("popping the water balloon") or removing the ureterocele and reattaching the ureter to the bladder. Which surgery is performed depends on the severity of the obstruction.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome varies. If the obstruction can be cured, the damage may be temporary. However, damage to the kidney may be permanent, especially if the condition persists. Kidney failure is uncommon because the other kidney usually continues to work as normal.

Complications:

• Permanent kidney damage , with a decrease or loss of function (one kidney)
• Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infection
• Permanent bladder damage (incontinence/urinary retention)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate ureterocele may be present.

References:

Walsh PC. Campbell's Urology . 8th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2002:2022-2034. 

Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine , 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004:774.

• Review Date: 5/3/2006
• Reviewed By: Neil D. Sherman, MD, Urologist, Essex County, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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