## Overview Ureteral obstruction is blockage of the tube carrying urine from the kidney to the bladder, usually by a stone. It causes colic and hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney) visible on ultrasound. Unilateral obstruction may be asymptomatic if the other kidney compensates. ## Causes Ureterolith (stone) or less commonly stricture or blood clot. ## Diagnosis Ultrasound showing hydronephrosis and sometimes the stone. Bloodwork assesses overall kidney function. ## Treatment Surgical removal or bypass in selected cases. Medical management of pain. Prognosis depends on remaining kidney function. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded if the kidney is severely damaged. Better if obstruction is relieved early. ## Prevention None proven.
colic; hydronephrosis on ultrasound; may be asymptomatic if unilateral
## Overview Ureteral obstruction is blockage of the tube carrying urine from the kidney to the bladder, usually by a stone. It causes colic and hydronephrosis (swelling of the kidney) visible on ultrasound. Unilateral obstruction may be asymptomatic if the other kidney compensates. ## Causes Ureterolith (stone) or less commonly stricture or blood clot. ## Diagnosis Ultrasound showing hydronephrosis and sometimes the stone. Bloodwork assesses overall kidney function. ## Treatment Surgical removal or bypass in selected cases. Medical management of pain. Prognosis depends on remaining kidney function. ## Recovery and Prognosis Guarded if the kidney is severely damaged. Better if obstruction is relieved early. ## Prevention None proven.
colic; hydronephrosis on ultrasound; may be asymptomatic if unilateral