Ureter and Urethra Conditions and Treatments
When the urethra becomes inflamed or blocked from stones, excess tissue or cancer, our specialists are here to help restore your health.
What Are the Ureter and Urethra?
The ureter is a small tube, or duct, that connects the bladder and kidneys. Urine passes through the ureter from the kidneys to the bladder.
The urethra is the tubular path that connects the bladder to the body's exterior, allowing urine to exit the body.
What Do the Ureter and Urethra Do?
The ureter and urethra are both important parts of the body's urinary tract system. Urine passes from the kidney through the ureter to the bladder. Then, it passes through the urethra to exit the body.
Sometimes, stones, blockages, cancer and other conditions create problems with this part of the urinary tract. Our experts get to the source of the condition that's making it hard for urine to leave the body successfully and painlessly.
Ureter and Urethra Conditions We Treat
We treat a wide range of conditions in the ureter and urethra.
Ureter Conditions
Urethra Conditions
- Bladder neck obstruction
- Epispadias and hypospadias
- Meatal stenosis
- Urethral cysts
- Urethral diverticulum
- Urethral duplication
- Urethral fistula
- Urethral stricture
- Urethral valves
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Urethritis
Diagnosis
The first step is taking a comprehensive look at your medical history and symptoms. We follow up with several urology tests, including:
Urinalysis |
Urinary Flow Test |
Imaging Tests |
Cystoscopy |
|---|---|---|---|
|
We test your urine for signs of infection or cancer. |
This test measures the amount and strength of your urine flow. |
We use sophisticated imaging tests, such as ultrasounds and MRIs, to get pictures of the ureter and urethra. |
A thin, flexible scope inserted into the urethra and bladder allows us to see inside these structures and identify blockages and other problems. |
Treatment
We offer several sophisticated treatment options for conditions that affect the ureter and urethra. In partnership with you, our team recommends various options based on the condition you are experiencing and your overall health.
Our team helps you meet your health goals in the way that best fits your life. We offer procedures such as:
- Catheterization, draining the bladder through flexible tubes and then removing the tubes
- Dilation, widening the urethra to improve urine flow
- Urethroplasty, repairing or reconstructing the urethra
- Stent implantation, placing a temporary plastic tube inside the urethra to hold it open
- Permanent catheter, similar to catheterization but the tube is left in place
Have Questions or Need Help?
To make an appointment or refer a patient, call the Department of Urology team. You can also have us call you back at your convenience.