Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction (adult)

Ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction is a condition where the ureter, the tube that connects the kidney to the bladder, is blocked at the top portion where it leaves the kidney. This can be due to a number of conditions, including congenital abnormalities of the ureter muscles, unusually located blood vessels that block the path of the ureter, or scarring from previous trauma or surgery. Patients often experience pain in their back or side, which can worsen when drinking increased fluids or alcohol. 

At UCSF, we specialize in minimally invasive surgery to correct UPJ obstruction. Two common procedures performed at our specialized center for ureteropelvic junction obstruction include laparoscopic dismembered pyeloplasty and endopyelotomy. As a high-volume center, we are proud of our excellent outcomes and long term follow up.