Robotic excision and ureteroureterostomy of blind-ending ureteral 'Duplication'

Introduction: Duplicated ureteral anatomy can be a reconstructive challenge. Blind-ending ureteral duplication has been reported with recommendations for surgical excision.

Objective: This video reviews the importance of exposure of anatomic landmarks in surgical excision of a blind-ending ureteral duplication.

Materials and methods: This is a retrospective case report of a patient who presented with a blind-ending ureteral duplication.

Discussion: A 13-year-old female presented with a right-sided abdominal mass. Abdominal and pelvic imaging revealed a tubular structure adjacent to and below the right kidney, possibly connecting to the right lower pole. While initially observed, the patient re-presented with urosepsis. A retrograde pyelogram showed no connection between the right ureter and this structure. The patient underwent robotic-assisted excision of this structure. Intra-operatively, it was connected to the right lower pole calyces. A ureteroureterostomy to the orthotopic ureter was performed. Although the structure was adjacent to the bladder dome, there was no communication distally. Postoperatively, the patient did well; follow-up imaging showed a non-dilated lower pole. The pathology of this structure was benign urothelium.

Conclusions: Surgical management of aberrant ureteral duplications should focus on identifying known landmarks and should be considered to prevent symptomatic infections and renal scarring.