Obstruction of the ureter (the tube that drains the kidney) leads to a backup of urine in the system (hydronephrosis). This may be acute (like with a kidney stone) or chronic. Symptoms include flank pain, recurrent kidney infections, kidney stones and loss of kidney function.
In chronic cases, an operation to open up the ureter may be recommended to avoid these sequelae. This may be done with a scope (endopyelotomy) or even laparoscopically (pyeloplasty) with or without robotic assistance when needed. Both options offer greatly reduced post-operative pain and quickened recovery compared to older operations without sacrificing outcomes.