Retrocaval Ureter: Report of Two Cases

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Anatomical Variations
• Congenital Anomalies

Background:

• Retrocaval ureter (RCU) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized by the ureter's abnormal passage posterior to the inferior vena cava (IVC).
• First described in 1893, only about 200 cases have been documented globally.
• This condition can lead to significant urological complications if not identified and managed.

Observation:

• Two cases of symptomatic retrocaval ureter were successfully managed at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Ghana.
• Case 1 involved a 55-year-old woman with chronic right flank pain, diagnosed via ultrasound and ureteropyelogram.
• Case 2 involved a 25-year-old man with intermittent right flank pain, diagnosed via ultrasound and CT urogram.

Findings:

• Both patients presented with right hydronephrosis, indicating obstruction.
• Diagnostic imaging, including retrograde ureteropyelogram and CT urogram, confirmed the retrocaval course of the ureter.
• Surgical intervention was performed for both cases.

Implications:

• This report highlights the increasing recognition of retrocaval ureter, even in regions with fewer documented cases.
• Successful surgical management confirms its efficacy in resolving symptoms associated with RCU.
• Increased awareness and reporting of RCU are crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.