Ureteral compromise after laparoscopic Burch colpopexy

Ureteral obstruction occurred in two patients after laparoscopic Burch cystourethropexy. Both women experienced right flank pain and right hydronephrosis. Cystoscopy revealed transmural passage of suture anterior and lateral to the ureteral orifice on the right side. One patient was managed by suprapubic cystoscopy to release the suture; the other was managed by preperitoneal laparoscopy to release suture at the bladder neck. In both patients efflux of urine was seen immediately from the ureteral orifice after suture release. Ultrasound confirmed prompt resolution of hydronephrosis. Cystoscopy with confirmation of patent ureters should be performed after every case of retropubic cystourethropexy. Retrograde rigid cystoscopy may not afford adequate access to remove transmural sutures. Placement of sutures at the bladder neck from medial to lateral may avoid entrapment of the intramural portion of ureter. (J Am Assoc Gynecol Laparosc 6(2):217-219, 1999)