Ureteric Stricture Management in London
A ureteric stricture is a narrowing in the ureter, the tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. It can restrict drainage from the kidney and may cause pain, recurrent infections or gradual pressure on the kidney.
Management depends on the location, length and cause of the narrowing. Our consultant urologists can arrange detailed assessment and explain the treatment options that may be appropriate, from temporary drainage to procedures designed to widen or repair the ureter.
What is a ureteric stricture?
A ureteric stricture is a narrowing caused by scar tissue within the ureter. It can prevent urine draining freely from the kidney to the bladder. This may lead to swelling of the kidney, known as hydronephrosis.
Strictures can develop for several reasons. They may follow a kidney stone, infection, previous surgery, radiotherapy or inflammation. In some cases, the cause is not clear.
Some people have no symptoms and the narrowing is found during a scan for another reason. Others may experience pain in the side or back, recurrent urinary infections, kidney stones or changes in kidney function.
The first priority is establishing how much the stricture is affecting drainage and whether kidney function is at risk. Your consultant will then recommend the most appropriate management plan.
Restoring drainage and protecting the kidney
Ureteric stricture management is designed to improve urine drainage and prevent ongoing pressure on the kidney.
Assessment of the narrowing
Imaging and other tests help show where the stricture is, how long it is and whether it is affecting the kidney.
Drainage where needed
A ureteric stent or another drainage procedure may be used temporarily to relieve blockage and protect the kidney.
Treatment matched to the stricture
Depending on the cause and features of the narrowing, management may involve widening the ureter, an endoscopic procedure or reconstructive surgery.
Who it is for
Ureteric stricture management may be appropriate for people who:
- Have a narrowing in the ureter identified on imaging
- Have hydronephrosis or reduced kidney drainage
- Experience recurrent infections, kidney stones or pain linked to a ureteric blockage
- Have developed a stricture after a stone, previous procedure or other treatment
- Need a clear assessment of kidney function and drainage
- Have been advised that treatment may be needed to protect the kidney
What to expect
- Assessment
Your consultant will review your symptoms, medical history and previous scans. Further tests may be arranged to assess the position of the stricture, drainage from the kidney and kidney function. - Discussion of management options
Your consultant will explain whether monitoring, temporary drainage or a procedure to widen or repair the ureter may be appropriate. The potential benefits, risks and alternatives will be discussed clearly. - Treatment and follow-up
If treatment is needed, your consultant will guide you through the procedure and recovery. Follow-up imaging may be arranged to check that the kidney is draining properly.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for ureteric stricture management in London?
Focus on kidney protection
Assessment looks carefully at the effect of the stricture on kidney drainage and function.
Treatment matched to the cause
The management plan is based on the location, length and likely cause of the narrowing, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Clear advice at every stage
Your consultant will explain what your imaging shows and why monitoring, drainage or further treatment may be recommended.
Consultant-led care in London
You will be assessed by a consultant urologist at The Forbury Clinic, 45 Queen Anne St, London W1G 9JF.
Frequently asked questions
What symptoms can a ureteric stricture cause?
Some people have no symptoms. Others may experience pain in the side or back, recurrent urinary infections, kidney stones or symptoms linked to poor drainage from the kidney.
How is a ureteric stricture diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves imaging, such as ultrasound or CT scanning, alongside blood and urine tests. A drainage scan or other specialist investigation may be recommended to assess how well the kidney is functioning.
Will I need a ureteric stent?
A ureteric stent may be used to relieve a blockage or support drainage before or after treatment. It is usually temporary. Your consultant will explain whether it may be needed in your situation.
Can a ureteric stricture be treated without surgery?
This depends on the cause, length and location of the narrowing. Some strictures can be managed with minimally invasive procedures, while others may need reconstructive surgery. In selected cases, monitoring may be appropriate.
Why is follow-up important?
A ureteric stricture can affect kidney drainage over time. Follow-up helps confirm that treatment has improved drainage and that kidney function remains protected.
Get a ureteric stricture properly assessed
If you have been told you have a narrowed ureter, hydronephrosis or impaired kidney drainage, our consultant urologists can assess the cause and discuss the appropriate next steps.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception0118 920 7055
- Location
The Forbury Clinic London, 45 Queen Anne St, London, W1G 9J
