Ureteral strictures and reconstruction in the cancer survivor

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Ureteral stricture disease commonly affects the cancer patients. This report will review the recent literature regarding both the causes and treatment options currently available for the cancer patients with ureteral obstruction. RECENT FINDINGS: Open ureteral reconstruction continues to have durable long-term results, whereas robotic approaches to repair have also demonstrated technical feasibility with equivalent short-term outcomes. SUMMARY: Stricture formation in the distal ureter is a common consequence of treatment for patients with pelvic malignancies. In experienced hands, minimally invasive approaches to ureteral reconstruction have proven to be feasible with short-term outcomes that are equivalent to more traditional, open techniques. Additionally, laparoscopic or robotic surgeries offer added benefits of earlier convalescence, decreased blood loss, as well as decreased pain. Nevertheless, open ureteral repair remains a viable option with durable long-term outcomes.