Pathogenesis and management of ureteric injuries

The injured ureter presents a formidable urological problem, both in diagnosis and management. Injury by external trauma is uncommon but ureteric injury remains the ever-present nightmare of abdominal and pelvic surgeons. The pathogenesis of trauma to the ureter is outlined and current concepts of surgical management are reviewed. This study presents our 7-year experience (1978-1984 inclusive) with 72 ureteric injuries. The series outlines the importance of early diagnosis and prompt definitive repair in providing the best result with the least morbidity.