Post-Ureteral Reimplantation Surgery: Common Concerns and Symptoms

Ureteral reimplantation

Hello, Dr.
Hsu.
I have a narrowing of about 3 cm in my ureter, and the reoperation went smoothly.
I drink about 2000 cc of water daily, but the amount I urinate varies by about 500 cc.
Is this normal? After the surgery, my urge to urinate is not as strong as before; what could be the reason for this? Sometimes my left leg feels heavy (since the surgery was on the left side); why is that? During my follow-up ultrasound on May 19, it was noted that there is some hydronephrosis in my kidney, but I do not have any significant pain in my lower back.
The doctor advised me to continue monitoring, but I am quite worried, so I would like to ask you about this.
Thank you!

Han, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/06/25

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, ureteral stricture reconstruction surgery generally has good outcomes.
Regular follow-up is recommended.
Regarding urine output, I believe it is still insufficient; ideally, daily urine output should be maintained at 1000-1500 cc.
It is possible that fluid loss occurs through sweating or respiration from the lungs.
Note: As long as a person has one functioning kidney, normal metabolism can be maintained, so urine production should not be an issue.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only serve as a reference; if necessary, it is best to seek medical care at a healthcare facility.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare Taitung Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2015/06/25

More Info

Post-ureteral reimplantation surgery is a significant procedure often performed to correct issues such as ureteral strictures or reflux. After such surgery, patients may experience a variety of symptoms and concerns, which can be quite normal but also warrant careful monitoring.

Firstly, regarding your observation of urine output, it is not uncommon for patients to notice a discrepancy between fluid intake and urine output after surgery. Drinking around 2000cc of water and producing about 1500cc of urine is generally within a normal range, but the variation you mentioned (500cc difference) could be attributed to several factors, including the body's fluid retention, the healing process, and the functionality of the kidneys and urinary tract post-surgery. It is essential to monitor your fluid intake and output closely, as significant changes could indicate complications.

The decrease in urinary urgency post-surgery can also be explained by the surgical intervention itself. After ureteral reimplantation, the anatomy of the urinary tract is altered, which can affect how the bladder and ureters communicate. This may lead to changes in sensation and urgency. Additionally, the healing process can temporarily affect nerve function and bladder sensitivity, which might explain why you are not experiencing the same level of urgency as before. If this persists or worsens, it would be advisable to discuss it with your healthcare provider.

The heaviness you feel in your left leg, particularly after left-sided surgery, could be related to several factors. Post-operative swelling, changes in circulation, or even nerve irritation can contribute to sensations of heaviness or discomfort in the limb. It is essential to keep an eye on this symptom, especially if it is accompanied by pain, swelling, or changes in skin color, as these could indicate complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

The finding of mild hydronephrosis (kidney swelling due to urine buildup) on your ultrasound is something that should be monitored closely. While it is reassuring that you do not have significant pain, hydronephrosis can lead to complications if not addressed. It is crucial to follow your doctor's advice regarding follow-up imaging and any additional tests that may be necessary to assess kidney function and the status of the ureter.

In summary, while many of the symptoms you are experiencing can be typical after ureteral reimplantation surgery, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and help ensure that any potential complications are identified and managed promptly. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are key to a successful recovery, so do not hesitate to reach out with any concerns or changes in your condition.

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