Laparoscopic treatment of retrocaval ureter: experience with six cases.

The objective of the study was to report the experience of laparoscopic repair in 6 retrocaval ureter cases. Retrocaval ureter repair was made using two different techniques: the retroperitoneal and transperitoneal approach. The mean surgery time was 90 minutes, with no difference between the retroperitoneal and transperitoneal procedures. All patients were allowed to eat on the first postoperative day and discharged on the second day. Three months later, a control assessment was made using intravenous urography with minimal dilatation, and a diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid renal scintigraphy with no signs of obstruction. The patients were followed for up to 120 months and all of them were asymptomatic. Laparoscopy can be considered a standard procedure to treat retrocaval ureter, since studies have shown that this technique is better than open surgery. The retroperitoneal or transperitoneal approach is up to the surgeon, according to his or her experience and practice. Indexing terms: Laporoscopy. Ureter. Vena cava, inferior.