Posted by
Linda on April 16, 1999 at 09:23:35
My question is regarding stricture. Can you tell me what kind of time frame it takes for stricture to occur in patients who have had surgery within the ureters? Are we talking days, months, even years? Is stricture okay as long as it doesn't close off the ureter and cause blockage? Thanks. Linda
Posted by HFHS M.D.-AK on April 17, 1999 at 13:06:54
Dear Linda,
Strictures can occur in a matter of days to weeks. A stricture occurs usually secondary to trauma. This trauma can be caused accidentally or during a procedure. Some strictures come from infection, cancer, or are congenital(born with) but are less common
The significance of a stricture can be evaluated by a renal scan to determine if the narrowed area causes a significant obstruction. Certainly if a stricture causes pain, infection, or loss of renal function, it should be repaired. To answer your question directly, yes, it is OK if a stricture does not cause a significant blockage. The indications above would be reasons to repair the narrowed area.
Keep in mind that there is also a heeling time after surgery. Narrowing of the ureters is common at the site of manipulation. This narrowing is not a stricture, but rather edema (swelling) secondary to the procedure or process requiring the surgery (stones, cancer,UPJ)
Talk to your doctor and see if he or she want to pursue any imaging studies. Not only will this identify the possible stricture but can also identify a significant drainage problem.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
*keyword: Stricture
