WHAT IS MEGAURETER?
Megaureter is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. This enlargement can be caused by issues with urine flow or dysfunction of the muscles that control the opening of the ureter into the urinary bladder. Megaureter is often diagnosed in children but can also occur in adults. Symptoms may include lower abdominal pain, frequent urinary tract infections, or incontinence.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of megaureter usually begins with a medical examination and medical history taking. Additional tests such as kidney and ureter ultrasound, CT scans, or cystourethrography may be required to confirm the diagnosis. These tests help doctors determine the exact position and degree of enlargement of the ureter.
TREATMENT OPTIONS - URETERAL REIMPLANTATION
Treatment of megaureter aims to restore normal urine flow from the kidneys to the urinary bladder. One effective surgical method is ureteral reimplantation, also known as ureterocystoneostomy (UCN). During this procedure, the surgeon corrects irregularities in the opening of the ureter into the urinary bladder and restores normal urine flow. This highly specialized surgical procedure requires an experienced surgeon but can significantly improve the function of the urinary system and reduce the risk of complications associated with megaureter.