Treatment Overview
Retrograde ureteral stricture surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat narrowing or blockage of the ureter by accessing it from the bladder side. Unlike the antegrade approach, which accesses the ureter via the kidney, retrograde surgery is ideal for lower and mid-ureteral strictures and cases where the stricture is reachable via the urinary bladder.
In Korea, retrograde ureteral stricture surgery is performed using high-definition endoscopes, fluoroscopy, and laser technology. This allows precise dilation, incision, or stent placement while minimizing tissue damage. Korean hospitals are internationally recognized for their expertise in urological reconstruction and minimally invasive procedures, making them a preferred destination for medical tourists seeking advanced ureteral care.
Purpose & Benefits
The main goal of retrograde ureteral stricture surgery is to restore normal urine flow from the kidney to the bladder, preventing complications such as hydronephrosis, recurrent infections, and kidney damage. Benefits include:
- Minimally invasive access via the bladder, avoiding kidney puncture
- Effective treatment for lower and mid-ureteral strictures
- Preservation of ureteral tissue and function
- Reduced hospital stay and faster recovery compared to open surgery
- Ability to combine with laser incision, balloon dilation, or stent placement
- Low risk of ureteral injury with precise endoscopic guidance
Korean specialists often tailor the approach based on stricture length, location, and patient condition for optimal outcomes.
Ideal Candidates
Retrograde ureteral stricture surgery is appropriate for patients who:
- Have short or mid-ureteral strictures accessible from the bladder
- Require treatment after recurrent ureteral obstruction
- Need minimally invasive surgery due to comorbidities or prior surgeries
- Experience hydronephrosis or flank pain due to ureteral narrowing
- Require ureteral reconstruction for stricture caused by stones, trauma, or scarring
Medical tourists benefit from Korea’s high success rates, advanced technology, and patient-centered care.
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, retrograde ureteral stricture surgery carries potential risks:
- Hematuria (blood in urine)
- Mild urinary urgency or bladder discomfort
- Urinary tract infection
- Rare ureteral injury or perforation
- Stricture recurrence in some cases
- Stent-related discomfort if used postoperatively
Korean urologists minimize risks with precise endoscopic placement, real-time imaging, and comprehensive follow-up protocols.
Techniques & Technology Used
Korean hospitals employ advanced techniques and equipment for retrograde ureteral stricture surgery:
- Flexible or rigid ureteroscopes for access via the bladder
- Guidewire-assisted dilation for stricture management
- Laser incision (Holmium or Thulium) to cut through fibrotic tissue
- Balloon dilation for widening the narrowed ureter
- Stent placement to maintain ureteral patency post-procedure
- High-resolution fluoroscopic imaging for accurate positioning
- Digital endoscopes for clear visualization of ureteral anatomy
These technologies ensure high success rates and minimize trauma to surrounding tissues.
Treatment Process in Korea
The retrograde ureteral stricture surgery process in Korea is organized for safety, efficiency, and patient comfort:
- Consultation & Evaluation
Medical history, imaging (ultrasound, CT urography), and urine tests are conducted to determine the stricture location, length, and severity. - Pre-Procedure Preparation
Patients are advised on fasting, antibiotics, and anesthesia options. Korean hospitals provide translation and patient support services for international visitors. - Surgical Procedure
- Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
- Ureteroscope inserted through the urethra into the bladder and ureter
- Guidewire passed through the stricture
- Laser incision or balloon dilation performed to widen the ureter
- Stent placed if needed to maintain ureteral patency
- Fluoroscopy used to confirm proper placement and flow
- Postoperative Monitoring
Patients are observed for a few hours or overnight depending on complexity. Pain management and infection prevention protocols are provided. - Follow-Up & Recovery
Follow-up imaging and check-ups ensure ureteral patency. Stents, if used, are removed within 2–4 weeks. Long-term monitoring is advised for high-risk patients.
Recovery & After-Care
Recovery is generally rapid, and Korean hospitals provide detailed guidance:
- Maintain good hydration to prevent infection and stent encrustation
- Manage mild urinary urgency, frequency, or pain with prescribed medications
- Avoid strenuous activity for 1–2 weeks
- Monitor for fever, hematuria, or unusual urinary symptoms
- Attend all follow-up imaging and check-ups
Most patients resume normal activities within 1–2 weeks, with gradual improvement in urinary function.
Results & Longevity
Retrograde ureteral stricture surgery provides effective relief from obstruction, especially for short or mid-ureteral strictures.
- Immediate improvement in urine flow and relief of hydronephrosis
- High long-term patency rates when combined with laser incision and stenting
- Recurrence rates are low when performed by experienced urologists
- Regular follow-up ensures optimal ureteral function and early detection of complications
Korean hospitals report excellent success rates for retrograde ureteral reconstruction.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is a global leader in retrograde ureteral stricture surgery because of:
- Highly skilled urologists with international training
- State-of-the-art endoscopic and imaging equipment
- Efficient scheduling and care coordination for international patients
- Competitive pricing compared to Western countries
- High safety and hygiene standards with low complication rates
- Comprehensive medical tourism support including accommodation and translation services
Patients worldwide trust Korea for advanced, minimally invasive urological procedures.
Cost Range
The cost of retrograde ureteral stricture surgery in Korea typically ranges from USD 3,500 to USD 8,000, depending on:
- Hospital tier and location
- Length and complexity of the stricture
- Type of anesthesia and surgical technique
- Stent placement or additional procedures
- Duration of hospital stay
Korea offers cost-effective, high-quality care for medical tourists.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH)
- Asan Medical Center
- Samsung Medical Center
- Severance Hospital – Yonsei University Health System
- Korea University Anam Hospital
- Wooridul Urology Clinic
- Gangnam Severance International Clinic
These hospitals are recognized for advanced minimally invasive urology, high success rates in ureteral stricture management, and comprehensive international patient services.
