Bilateral single-system ectopic ureter associated with choledochal cyst: report of 2 cases

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Urology
• Congenital Malformations
• Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

• Ectopic ureters in children often present with urinary reflux or obstruction due to abnormal ureteral orifice location.
• Approximately 20-25% of ectopic ureters are associated with a non-duplicated renal system, and other congenital anomalies are common.
• Choledochal cysts are congenital dilations of the bile ducts, typically presenting with jaundice, abdominal pain, or a palpable mass.

Observation:

• Two pediatric patients presented with bilateral single-system ectopic ureters.
• Both patients also had associated choledochal cysts, a rare co-occurrence.
• No other significant congenital malformations were noted in either patient.

Findings:

• Surgical intervention involved ureteral reimplantation for the ectopic ureters.
• Choledochal cyst resection with hepaticojejunostomy was performed in both cases.
• Successful management of both conditions was achieved through combined surgical procedures.

Implications:

• This report describes the first documented cases of bilateral single-system ectopic ureters coexisting with choledochal cysts without other major anomalies.
• The findings suggest a potential, albeit rare, association between these congenital conditions.
• This case series provides valuable information for pediatric surgeons and urologists managing complex congenital anomalies.