Laparoscopic Ureteral Reconstruction in Children with Retrocaval Ureter: A Modern Single Center Retrospective Study.

ABSTRACT

Purpose: This study aims to report our experience in the treatment of children with retrocaval ureter (RCU) using laparoscopic ureteral reconstruction surgery. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively collected clinical data from 10 pediatric patients with RCU who underwent laparoscopic surgery at our hospital from April 2010 to April 2022. All patients underwent comprehensive preoperative radiological assessment and were diagnosed with RCU, subsequently undergoing laparoscopic ureteral reconstruction. Patient demographics, surgical data, and postoperative outcomes were recorded. Regular follow-ups were conducted postoperatively, evaluating clinical symptoms and radiological results. Results: The median age of the 10 patients was 8.8 years (range, 6-14 years). All surgeries were successfully performed laparoscopically without the need for open conversion, with an average surgical time of 153.3 minutes (range, 120-243 minutes). Intraoperative bleeding was minimal and no blood transfusions were required. No intraoperative complications were observed. The average hospital stay for the patients was 5.3 days (range, 4-7 days) and the Double-J (D-J) stent was removed 6 weeks postoperatively. Follow-up ultrasound results at 3 and 6 months postoperatively showed a reduction in renal pelvic dilatation, and all patients experienced significant relief of clinical symptoms related to flank and abdominal discomfort. Conclusion: Laparoscopic reconstruction for RCU demonstrates good feasibility and effectiveness in pediatric patients, offering a minimally invasive treatment option for the management of RCU in children.