Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026
14:05
A Murine Model of Irreversible and Reversible Unilateral Ureteric Obstruction
Published on: December 20, 2014
Pure robotic retrocaval ureter repair
Ashok K Hemal1, Ranjit Rao, Sachit Sharma
1Department of Urology, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157, USA. ahemal@wfubmc.edu
Summary
Pure robotic retrocaval ureter repair is a feasible surgical option for ureteral obstruction. This minimally invasive technique offers ergonomic benefits for surgeons and simpler suturing compared to laparoscopy.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Robotic Surgery
Background:
- Retrocaval ureter is a rare congenital anomaly causing urinary obstruction.
- Surgical repair is necessary to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.
- Traditional open and laparoscopic approaches have been utilized.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old female presented with right loin pain and ureteral obstruction.
- Intravenous urography revealed the characteristic "fish-hook" appearance of the ureter.
- The patient opted for a robot-assisted surgical repair.
Findings:
- A pure robotic retrocaval ureter repair was successfully performed.
- The procedure involved mobilizing the colon to access retroperitoneal structures and transposing the ureter anterior to the inferior vena cava.
- A pyelopyelostomy was completed over a ureteral stent, with the patient discharged on postoperative day 3.
Implications:
- Pure robotic retrocaval ureter repair is a feasible and effective minimally invasive treatment.
- The robotic approach may offer advantages in surgeon ergonomics and intracorporeal suturing.
- Further research is needed to compare outcomes with laparoscopic techniques.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Ureters
The ureters are retroperitoneal tubes located on either side of the vertebral column. They are responsible for transporting urine from each kidney to the urinary bladder. These tubes have thick walls and are approximately 25-30 cm long. Their diameter is around 10 mm at the renal pelvis, gradually narrowing to 1 mm as the ureter obliquely enters the posterior bladder wall through the ureteric orifices. The shape of these orifices is slit-like, which helps to prevent urine backflow toward the...
01:22Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
IntroductionIntravenous Urography (IVU) and Retrograde Pyelography (RP) are important diagnostic imaging techniques used to evaluate the urinary system. These methods help identify structural abnormalities, obstructions, and functional issues in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Both procedures use iodine-based contrast media to enhance the visibility of urinary tract structures on X-ray images, though they differ in their methods and indications.1. Intravenous Urography (IVU)Intravenous...