Ureteric reimplantation in Perth
Ureteric reimplantation is surgery to repair and or reattach the ureter to the bladder.
You may have been dealing with pain, recurrent infections, kidney swelling, stent discomfort, or trouble with urine draining properly. You may have had scans or tests, and been told there is a problem with the ureter.
For many people, this is the first time they have heard the word ureter.
The ureter is the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. If it becomes blocked, narrowed, scarred or damaged, urine may not drain the way it should. When that happens, surgery may be needed to repair it.
One of the operations used for this is ureteric re-implantation (also called ureteral reimplantation).
- Dr Jennifer Kong, Urological Surgeon Perth
Understanding ureteral reimplantation
What is ureteric re-implantation?
Ureteric re-implantation is an operation to reposition or repair the ureter and reattach it to the bladder.
It is usually done when the lower part of the ureter, close to the bladder, is injured or blocked.
This may be due to scar tissue, damage, or a narrowing that affects urine flow.
The aim is to help urine drain properly again and to protect the kidney.
Common concerns about ureteric re-implantation
It is normal to feel unsure when you hear you may need this kind of surgery.
Many people want to know:
- what the operation actually involves
- whether it is major surgery
- how long recovery takes
- whether they will need a catheter or stent
- when they can get back to normal daily life
- what the risks are
These are important questions. The name sounds complicated, but the basic idea is simple. The ureter is repaired and joined back into the bladder so urine can pass more normally.
- Dr Jennifer Kong, Urological Surgeon Perth
Ureteral reimplantation procedure
What happens during ureteric re-implantation?
Ureteric re-implantation is done under a general anaesthetic, so you are asleep during surgery.
During the operation, the affected part of the ureter is repaired and reattached to the bladder. In some cases, the bladder may need to be adjusted slightly so the ureter can be joined without tension.
A temporary stent is often placed inside the ureter to help it heal and keep urine draining while the area recovers.
Depending on the reason for surgery and your individual situation, the operation may be performed using a minimally invasive approach such as robotic surgery, or through an open operation.
Recovery after ureteral reimplantation
Recovery after ureteral reimplantation will vary from person to person and depends on the type of surgery performed.
After surgery, most people stay in hospital for a short time. You may wake up with a catheter draining the bladder and you may also have a temporary ureteric stent in place.
It is common to feel sore and tired for a while. Some people also notice bladder irritation or discomfort while the stent is in.
Once you are home, you will usually need to take things easy for the first few weeks. Walking is encouraged, but heavy lifting, strenuous activity and intense exercise usually need to wait until healing is complete.
You will also need follow-up to check how the repair is healing and to plan removal of the stent and catheter. The stent is usually removed with a quick day procedure where a small camera is inserted into the bladder to retrieve the stent. This usually happens at 6 weeks.
All surgery carries risks, and ureteric re-implantation is no different.
Possible risks can include bleeding, infection, pain, urine leak, scarring, narrowing coming back, or the need for further treatment. With some repairs the urine can reflux into the kidney causing discomfort especially if the bladder is full.
There can also be risks linked to the anaesthetic, catheter or stent.
The exact risks depend on your general health, the reason for surgery, and whether the operation is done robotically or through an open approach.
Your consultation is the best time to talk through the possible benefits and risks in your own case.
Urological surgeon Perth
About Dr Jennifer Kong
Dr Jennifer Kong is a urological surgeon in Perth who treats a wide range of urological conditions, including problems affecting the ureter and urinary tract.
She provides assessment and treatment for a range of urological conditions and discusses the available treatment options, including surgery where appropriate. In suitable patients, Dr Kong performs robotic surgery in Perth, including ureteric re-implantation.
Not sure what to expect at your appointment? Read what happens when you visit Dr Jennifer Kong.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
The ureter is the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. You have one ureter on each side.
This surgery may be recommended if the ureter is blocked, narrowed, scarred, damaged, or not draining urine properly into the bladder.
No. They are different procedures. Ureteric re-implantation treats the ureter, which carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. Urethral reconstruction treats the urethra, which carries urine out of the body from the bladder.
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery and your overall health. Most people need a few weeks of lighter activity, with return to strenuous activity and physically demanding jobs taking longer.
For some men, prostate cancer surgery is one of the options. For others, treatment may involve active surveillance or radiation therapy. This depends on the type of prostate cancer, how aggressive it appears, your general health, and what matters most to you. These are the sorts of questions we will talk through during your consultation.
Not sure what to expect at your appointment? Read what happens when you visit Dr Jennifer Kong.
Contact
Kong Urology | Dr Jennifer Kong
Get in touch
Dr Jennifer Kong consults in
West Leederville close to SJOG Subiaco
164 Cambridge Street
WEST LEEDERVILLE WA 6007
Australia